Music therapy: “My favourite part of the week”

Russell is a stroke survivor and had learnt piano proficiently as a youth and reconnected with his musical identity prior to suffering his stroke. During his stroke recovery journey, Russell finds great enjoyment and purpose engaging in music therapy sessions, which he says is his favourite part of the week.

Music therapy is supporting Russell’s mental health and psychological wellbeing, including creating opportunities for self-expression, developing confidence, connecting to and affirming his identity, as well as emotional regulation. Plus by including piano playing in sessions, Russell is developing his fine motor skills and cognitive functioning. 

At the end of each session, Russell engages in musical improvisation with his support worker, supported by registered music therapist, Rachel. Russell is a very hard working man, so improvising allows space for musical expression after the mental exertion of the session. 

Here is a clip of Russell improvising on the desk bells supported by his support worker on reverie harp and music therapist on flute.

Name used with participant consent.