music therapy

noun

: therapy based on engagement in musical activities : the therapeutic use of music (as to reduce anxiety, improve cognitive functioning, promote physical rehabilitation, or enhance interpersonal communication) that typically involves listening to music, singing, playing musical instruments, or composing music
In 1992, the National Institutes of Health created an Office of Alternative Medicine … to evaluate therapies ranging from homeopathy and music therapy to acupuncture.Corinna Wu
music therapist noun
plural music therapists
Music therapists have found that post-operative patients who listen to soothing music require less pain medication. Dave Tianen

Examples of music therapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
She is also involved in music therapy, singing jazz in local memory care units. Benjamin Vanhoose, People.com, 14 May 2025 Baptist Health South Florida is planning to soon offer music therapy too. Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 11 Apr. 2025 While free and open to the public, the event also serves as a fundraiser for the Conservatory’s music therapy and music education programs. Karu F. Daniels, New York Daily News, 8 May 2025 The center will offer educational programs, social services and financial aid and host nonprofits including Community Counseling Centers of Southern Nevada, which will provide mental health support through counseling and music therapy. Leena Tailor, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for music therapy

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of music therapy was in 1919

Cite this Entry

“Music therapy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/music%20therapy. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

music therapy

noun
mu·​sic therapy ˈmyü-zik- How to pronounce music therapy (audio)
: therapy based on engagement in musical activities : the therapeutic use of music (as to reduce anxiety, improve cognitive functioning, promote physical rehabilitation, or enhance interpersonal communication) that typically involves listening to music, singing, playing musical instruments, or composing music
music therapist noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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