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hands on a piano — Research and innovation

Music and Health Research Institute

Research axis

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The Institute develops and promotes multi-disciplinary teams made up of researchers, practitioners, and community organizations to pursue action-based original research that produces impactful knowledge.

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Understanding the impact of music on sensory, cognitive, physical and mental health conditions

Research over the last several decades has shown that musical experiences can have significant effects on the mind and can be associated with a range of sensory, cognitive, physical and mental benefits. However, the paucity of strong scientific evidence has made it difficult for music-based treatments to enter mainstream medical practice. For example, an in-depth understanding of the key elements of the music-based activities that lead to motor control, motor learning, and motor development is fundamental to understanding the benefits of music on improving movement and alleviating physical pain and injuries. Also, musical interventions are increasingly used alongside, or as alternatives to, pharmacological interventions to treat psychological and mental health conditions. Identifying when and how music can be effective for psychological and mental health conditions is essential. It is necessary to test the effectiveness of various music-based approaches in order to recognize the most effective for each area of use and promote them as a care option.

Developing innovative learning and training practices

A number of research projects have begun to examine how music making is possible and beneficial for people impacted by mental health conditions, social isolation, cultural exclusion, and sensory, physical, or cognitive disabilities. However, applying what is learned in fundamental brain studies to educational contexts is challenging. Most music pedagogies aimed at improving health have not been rigorously evaluated. We still cannot identify the factors that make learning possible for various populations or pinpoint the approaches that will be most effective, especially with disabled, marginalized or aging populations. With improved training and teaching practices, more people will have equal opportunities to foster their artistic aspirations through the study, enjoyment and production of music, and be participants in the vibrant world of music. Our research will provide vital data on the optimal mode of implementation within preventive and treatment pathways for specific health conditions.

Developing innovative clinical practices

Presently, in the health care and medical sectors, the search for efficient and non-invasive therapies is ongoing and in high demand. A number of research projects have begun to examine how music can help adults with mental illness, aid children with developmental disabilities, benefit people with physical disabilities, or have effects on the general well-being of older people. However, applying what is known in fundamental studies to clinical contexts is challenging. We need research that can help improve our understanding of the therapeutic benefits of music. Further study is necessary in order to better understand how to use music in the context of health care treatments. High-quality evidence-based research is critical when exploring the role of musical interventions with therapeutic goals in order to provide evidence for policy considerations.

Enhancing musicians’ mental and physical health and well-being

While music can provide significant health benefits, it can also be the cause of severe health impairments. While musicians (classical, jazz, rock, popular) experience huge satisfaction from engaging with their art, physical and mental health issues related to the practice of their craft also affect many. These issues can cause significant distress, setbacks, or even force musicians to stop playing entirely. The widespread presence of physical pain and performance anxiety among musicians is on the rise and musicians’ wellness issues can present unique problems. However, there is a lack of evidence-based interventions to address these conditions.

Making music accessible: fostering equity, diversity and inclusion through music

The participatory nature of music engages people in an active and co-creative process. Barriers to participation for marginalized populations have been present in many musical traditions that require high levels of training and performance competence. However, musical ability is inherent in all people, and creating access to music learning and music making may require non-traditional means of engagement to allow for equitable participation. As a social activity, music is a means through which social interaction can be developed, expressed, and established. Each person has different circumstances, and it is important to focus on allocating the context-specific resources and opportunities needed to ensure that everyone has equal access to music making. People with physical, sensory, cognitive, and mental disabilities are often excluded from mainstream social activities. Using music with marginalized and isolated populations is an innovative approach to overcoming exclusion.