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50 Years of Music Therapy in Aotearoa, New Zealand

2024 Music Therapy New Zealand celebrated 50 years of Music Therapy in Aotearoa, New Zealand. 

The event date was 13 – 15 September 2024

To honour this significant milestone we highlighted events, stories and featured some of the pioneers who were instrumental in the growth of music therapy in NZ. 

Photo: Joan Stevens with a young person exploring an autoharp.

Music Therapy has not only brought our daughter great improvements in motor planning, finger strength, communication and attention span, it has brought her great joy as well. There is no place she would rather be than in a room making music.
John and Emma - Hamilton, NZ
John and Emma - Hamilton, NZ
“Yesterday was one of the most rewarding when we had a visit from a Music Therapist. What a great experience. To see a whole group of residents joining in by either singing, requesting, conversing, or ‘playing’ an instrument was a very emotional experience. The communication between residents was great and it was obvious how well they responded…it was brilliant.”
Family Member - Hamilton, NZ
Family Member - Hamilton, NZ
“We feel privileged to be part of these groups and to witness the transformation that these sessions bring about…extremely moving and powerful…Music Therapy is priceless”.
Staff Member
Staff Member
“Every time I come to the house, David is ready to get in the car and go to Music Therapy with Shari."
Support Person
"My family have been thrilled with Liz’s Music Therapy and her regular reporting. Mum has dementia however I have noticed improvements in her cognitive functioning since she started her sessions with Liz. I know Mum enjoys her music sessions. I have no hesitation in recommending Liz – she has been a huge support in the care of my mother."
Family Member
"Thanks Megan. This is all a slice of perfect in a very crazy crazy world. So very glad we have kept this going for A."
“Pip has vast knowledge on how to engage and get results from children in her Music Therapy sessions. Her lessons are motivating and targeted for each individual child. Pip finds the just-right blend between the much needed structure that anchors and regulates our students, while always leaving room for improvisation, exploration, and musical adventures co-created with the students. Her communication with the family and team that supports the child is second to none, taking an interest in using strategies that work within the school/home setting as well as sharing strategies that go well in each session”
Justine SENCO Newtown School

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