Programs: Music Therapy
Music Therapy through CSMA is an extension of CMU's Bachelor of Music Therapy program.
Does the Community School of Music & the Arts offer music lessons for persons with special needs or disabilities?
Yes, we provide adapted music lessons (piano, guitar and voice).
Adapted Music Lessons
"Music expresses that which cannot remain silent and that which cannot be put into words"
– Victor Hugo
What is music therapy?
Music therapy is the use of music within the context of a therapeutic relationship, to support and achieve therapeutic goals (mental, physical, emotional, spiritual health). Music is both verbal and non-verbal, and has creative, physical, cognitive, and emotional qualities. In the session these musical characteristics are used to facilitate receptive and expressive experiences, contributing to growth and personal development.
Music therapy is client focused, using both the relationship formed between therapist and client, and the music itself to bring about positive change.
What do music therapists do?
Music therapists are trained to assess each individual's emotional, cognitive, mental, physical, social, and communication abilities through music. Music therapy sessions are therefore designed to meet the needs of each individual in individual or group settings.
What happens in a music therapy session?
The music therapist will assess each individual's abilities and needs through music. Based on the assessment the therapist and client(s) will set goals for personal growth and development. Music therapy sessions will use music to support the unique individual's strengths and goals. Sessions can include singing, playing musical instruments, active and passive music listening, improvising, movement to music, music and imagery, and composing.
Who benefits from music therapy?
Music therapy is used with individuals of various ages, abilities, and musical backgrounds in institutional, community and private practice settings. This includes but is not limited to:
- Acquired Brain Injury
- AIDS
- Autism and other Pervasive Development Disabilities
- Critical Care
- Developmental Disabilities
- Emotional Traumas
- Geriatric Care
- Hearing Impairments
- Mental Health
- Neonatal Care
- Obstetrics
- Oncology
- Pain Control
- Palliative Care
- Personal Growth
- Physical Disabilities
- Speech and Language Impairments
- Substance Abuse
- Teens at Risk
- Victims of Abuse
- Visual Impairments
MUSIC THERAPY SERVICES
FEES: See charts below for Program Fee + Registration Fee
Vivace Voices Choir led by Naomi Friesen
A choir for persons living with Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia and their caregivers.
Come and join in making music together! Singing in a choir is a challenging and joyful experience. Learn to sing new and familiar music while making connections with those around you.
No prior choral experience is required. Care partners must attend with person living with Alzheimer's.
Naomi Friesen, Music Therapist Accredited (MTA) Naomi has been providing music therapy for older adults around Winnipeg since early 2022. She presents personalized music as a communicator, connector and a portrayal of one’s unique self. Naomi seeks to highlight every person’s strengths within the safety of the therapeutic relationship.
Date: Tuesdays; 6:30–7:30 PM
Fall: 10 week session October 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5, 12, 19, 28, December 3, 10, 2024. (Makeup class December 17 )
Winter: 10 week session January 28, Feb 4, 11, 18, 25, Mar 4, 11, 18, 25, Apr 1, 2025. (Makeup class April 8)
Location: Room C167 - North Campus, 500 Shaftesbury Blvd.
COST: $145/pair (Fall session)
$145/pair (Winter session)
$280.00/pair (Both Sessions)
Music Therapy Session Fees
| ON-SITE | 30 min | 45 min | 60 min |
| Individual | $32.50 | $48.75 | $65.00 |
| Group Rate 6 / group max |
--- | $56.25 | $75.00 |
| Mileage Rate | 0-6 km | 7-12 km | 13-20 km |
| Rate | $5.00 | $10.00 | $15.00 |
NOTE: Group sizes may be negotiable depending on the needs of the clients.
ON-SITE: On-site refers to the CSMA at CMU, 500 Shaftesbury Blvd., Winnipeg Manitoba.
OFF-SITE: Off-site can be at a location of the client's choice, such as home, community centre, hospital, school, etc. All fees are inclusive (ie, no extra charge for documentation and mileage within Winnipeg).
Still curious? Check out:
The Canadian Association of Music Therapists
Ted Talk about Music Therapy
Music Heals
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