Music Therapy in Children's Palliative Care

Rezensionen / Stimmen

'The authors have uniquely captured the role of music therapy at all points of children and their families' journeys through paediatric palliative care and beyond. They genuinely place the voices of children and families at the centre, capturing their narratives in a truly meaningful way. The value of meaning-making through collaborative song shines through and it is a privilege to read such intimate stories.'

Julia Hackett, Associate Professor, Paediatric Palliative Care Research Group, University of York, UK.

'An incredible assemblage of sensitive and close to heart topics and scenarios etched under research, involving both service users and service providers reflecting their lived experiences of the therapeutic role of music in children's palliative care. This book will expand the horizons of readers enabling them to have insight into an emotionally turbulent world of families of children with life shortening conditions facing multifaceted challenges on a daily basis with music helping them in its management and playing a soothing role. A must read!!'

Riffat Iqbal, a full time carer now, after being a teacher, interpreter, playscheme deputy manager for special needs children, a tutor of Urdu language and customer service advisor. A cancer survivor, also a proud mother of 11 years old son with complex needs and a bereaved parent to an adult daughter.

'The value of memory making when you are caring for a child who you know is going to have a short (and complex) life is incredibly difficult. We weave therapies and activities into our day to day. Clarity often only comes after the event. Vicky and Julie have gathered together the threads, from first hand experiences, how music and music therapy plays a part in giving meaning and purpose to both child and parent. It was Shakespeare who said, "If music be the food of love, play on"'.

Tussie Myerson, bereaved mother and advocate and campaigner for families caring for children with life-limiting conditions.

Collaboration and reciprocity are at the heart of this book. The co-authored stories integrate voices from parents and music therapists to offer unique and valuable insights into the role that music and music therapy play in children's palliative care. In sharing the stories of families and therapists the authors highlight the development of music therapy in children's palliative care and celebrate the mutual growth and learning that can occur through music, listening, dialogue and relationships.

Dr Philippa Derrington, Music Therapist and Programme Lead MSc Music Therapy Queen Margaret University