COURSE CURRICULUM

The Music and Musicianship in Practice module is a 20-credit core module within the MA Music Therapy programme. It focuses on developing students’ advanced musical abilities and applying them therapeutically in clinical settings. The module helps students enhance their understanding of music as a creative and expressive tool, with particular emphasis on improvisation and composition techniques used in Music Therapy practice. Students build on their existing musical skills and develop more focused therapeutic approaches to creativity, exploring how different musical methods can support emotional expression, communication, and wellbeing. The module encourages students to expand their practical, intellectual, and creative abilities while developing resourcefulness in musical practice. Students further improve improvisation skills on their main instrument, while also developing keyboard and vocal improvisation techniques essential for therapeutic work. The module also explores the wider cultural and social contexts of music through the study of different musical genres and music analysis. Through practical activities and coursework, students learn how to apply musical knowledge in a therapeutic environment and develop the confidence required to work creatively with diverse client groups. This module provides a strong foundation for future clinical placements and professional Music Therapy practice.