Course description
This course provides opportunities for students to apply, integrate, and further build their guitar and voice skills in health care and child care settings. They will develop their self-awareness, and broaden their understanding of the Music Therapy field by singing and playing music publicly, engaging in group discussions, and reflecting individually.
Course content
A. During On-Site Experiences
Successful students will:
- follow instruction and guidance from the worksite supervisor.
- play repertoire at the worksite using guitar and voice.
- wear attire appropriate to the setting.
- employ methods of active engagement.
- behave in an empathetic and respectful manner.
- learn to speak with the audience.
- keep a journal of worksite experiences and reflections, from which to draw when preparing the self-evaluation report at the completion of the field experience.
- assume responsibility for contacting the instructor and the worksite supervisor if issues or concerns arise.
B. In Class
Successful students will:
- further develop and demonstrate repertoire appropriate to setting.
- incorporate instructor feedback for continued learning.
- demonstrate musical progress as part of ongoing evaluation.
- participate in group discussions and ensemble work.
- further develop insight into client populations and the effectiveness of music.
C. After the On-Site Experiences
Successful students will:
- arrange for a meeting with the instructor.
- submit written work as assigned (e.g. self-evaluation report, journal, etc.).
Learning activities
The instructor will organize the worksite placements and field trip.
The on-site supervisors will provide tasks, supervise and give feedback on student playing and singing.
The instructor will meet with students individually and in class to discuss on-site plans and provide suggestions and feedback.
Means of assessment
Students will be evaluated on the basis of Mastery / Non-mastery.
- The instructor, in consultation with the worksite supervisors, will evaluate the student's attendance, musicianship, and participation / professionalism. Written and practical assignments will be given to evaluate student progress.
- The following must be completed to receive a Mastery grade:
- a minimum of twelve (12) hours of successful field experience
- satisfactory participation as outlined by the instructor
- assignment completion (including self-evaluation reports)
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course, the successful student will be able to:
- apply guitar and vocal skills appropriately on-site.
- acquire and memorize appropriate worksite song material.
- demonstrate understanding of a music therapist's role in the workplace.
- engage musically in a group setting, with confidence.
Textbook materials
Required materials will include the following:
- Guitar
- Songbook package
- Guitar strap
- Portable music stand
- Plectrums