Happy National Music Therapy Week!
At Texas Music Project, we believe in the extraordinary healing power of music—and this week, we’re proud to join others across the nation in celebrating National Music Therapy Week.
Today, we’re honored to share a few real-life stories from the front lines of healing, thanks to the incredible work of our Music Therapists and the support of our community.
Our Music Heals Program is dedicated to making a lasting impact in the lives of children and families facing medical challenges. Through partnerships with more than seven hospitals across Texas, we help provide critical resources to Music Therapy programs—including instruments, live performances, and therapist training.
But First, What exactly is Music Therapy? Music Therapy is a clinically proven approach that uses music to support physical, emotional, and cognitive healing. Music therapy can reduces stress, help manage pain, improve communication, uplift mood, and support overall well-being which can in turn help other treatments become more affective. For many pediatric patients, it’s not just therapy—it’s a lifeline. But let’s let the stories speak for themselves…
A Moment of Relief
Methodist Children’s
Emily Metcalf, a dedicated Music Therapist, told us about a young patient recovering from spinal fusion surgery who was confined to laying flat for 72 hours. The immobility took a toll, and the patient’s emotional state began to deteriorate. Through two heartfelt sessions, Music Therapists helped the child sing their favorite musical theater songs and even create original lyrics with improvised guitar accompaniment. The child shared, “This has been the only good thing about being here.”
These music therapy sessions became a turning point—for many patients it is the only moment of control and peace and even an incredible emotional outlet during an otherwise difficult circumstance. The hospitals Doctors and nurses consistently note the difference that Music Therapy makes for their patients in both medical recovery and in bringing emotional peace during long and difficult treatments.
A Song for Recovery
Cook Children’s Fort Worth
Music Therapists Sonny Burgess and Megan Hodges recounted a moving story of a young patient in a coma. The patient’s grandparent, seeking connection and hope, utilized Cook Children’s in-hospital studio (Sparklefly Recording Studio) to write and record a song. That song was played in the grandchild’s hospital room—and shortly after, the young patient emerged from the coma. This powerful moment demonstrates that Music Therapy doesn’t just touch patients—it empowers families, fosters hope, and creates emotional bridges when words fall short.
These are just two of the many stories that illustrate how Music Therapy is improving outcomes and enriching the lives of children and their families.We hope to continue sharing more of these stories that are all possible when community comes together and share the power of music to help those in need.
Song of Hope
As we expand our efforts, our latest initiative—Song of Hope—is designed to give pediatric patients the chance to write, record, and take home their very own song. In collaboration with hospital partners like Cook Children’s, we are helping families turn hospital stays into unforgettable creative milestones, providing music that continues to heal long after discharge.
You Make It Possible
To everyone who has supported our mission: thank you. Your generosity makes stories like these a reality. During National Music Therapy Week, we invite you to get involved, spread the word, and make a donation to keep our Music Heals Program growing.
Let’s continue to bring music, hope, and healing to the children who need it most.
