We have had a fantastic Music Therapy Week 2026. Thanks to all who contributed and participated!
Links to the recorded webinars can be found here.
Media highlights
Circles of connection
"Wellington-based Registered Music Therapist Sophie Sabri works with adults with disabilities and community groups across the capital, using music as a way to support communication, self-expression and connection." Regional News, 265, 7 April 2026
Celebrating Music Therapy Week 2026 Across Aotearoa
"Music Therapy Week is nationwide and offers an opportunity to learn more about a practice that supports people of all ages and abilities. Music therapy helps strengthen mental health and wellbeing, speech and communication, physical movement and coordination, confidence, attention and cognitive functioning." MusicNZ, 17 March 2026
Notes of joy and connection: Exploring music therapy in a teen parent unit
"In Wairarapa, a pilot programme in music therapy has shown measurable benefits for both teen parents and their tamariki. Trialled at Masterton’s Puawānanga teen parent unit in term 4 last year, the programme set out to see if starting a school day with big smiles, world music, waiata and dancing could improve learning for parents and their babies." Education Gazette, volume 105, Number 3
The joyful Christchurch choir for adults with intellectual disabilities
"The newly formed HAT True Colours Choir is in full swing, bringing together adults with intellectual disabilities for an hour of pure joy, connection and music." The Press, 7 April 2026
Music Therapist opens new paediatric space
"Music can be used for connection, communication and for well-being, and also to help build on skills that aren’t necessarily musical based." TopSouthNow, 23 March 2026
The magic of Music Therapy
"Music therapy with RMTh Rachel Foxell, at RMTC, has been life-changing for Stacey and Pita Fainu and their six-year-old son, Dean, who is autistic and considered non-verbal." eTangata, 12 April 2026
RNZ Here Now
Music therapy - a journey into sound and mental health. Interview with Carlos Reigelhaupt Landreani.
RNZ Culture 101
Chris O'Connor from Raukatauri Music Therapy Centre
RNZ Three to Seven
The rehab you have when you're not having rehab - Esther Simpson's work in neurological therapy
Plains Media
Lilly Middleton and the HAT Colour Choir with Helen Anderson Trust
95bFM Your Gig is Showing
Stefan Neville and Chris O'Connor talk about Music Therapy Week at RMTC (11 April 2026)
Radioactive FM
Music Therapy Week interview with Rick Berry (14/04/2025)
Fresh FM
Music Therapy Week with Emma Matthews (31 March 2026)
Radio Hawkes Bay
Community Corner: Music Therapy Week with Ella Polczyk and Sinead Hegarty (1 April 2026)
Music Therapy Week Events, 2026
