APM Project: Interviews with Music Therapists at The Music Settlement

In APM, we discussed how genres like rock, rap, and hip hop can express experiences that are often stigmatized, such as mental health topics. Music can be a powerful tool for exploring illness, grief, and healing when those experiences can be difficult to verbalize. For my project, I had the opportunity to interview two music therapists (Andrea Wead and Rachel Plentovich) from The Music Settlement, a nonprofit organization that offers a range of music programs, including music therapy. Music therapy is an evidence-based practice that serves all patient populations and takes many forms, such as songwriting, lyric analysis, instrumental learning, and listening for relaxation.

I have compiled what I felt were meaningful excerpts from the interviews, along with song excerpts chosen by the therapists.