The Music Effect: Music Physiology And Clinical Applications

Music is well known to have a significant effect on physiology and is widely used as an effective therapeutic tool in stress and pain management, rehabilitation, and behavior modification, but its effects are not well understood.

This book explains what 'music' is, how it is processed by and affects the body, and how it can be applied in a range of physiological and psychological conditions. Rhythm, melody, timbre, harmony, dynamics, and form, and their effects on the body are explored in detail, helping practitioners create effective therapy interventions that complement other treatment systems. Case studies and evidence from research and practice show how music therapy can benefit people with autistic spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, schizophrenia, and sensory difficulties, among other conditions.

The Music Effect is an essential resource for music therapists, clinicians, educators and anyone with an interest in holistic therapy.

Daniel J. Schneck was a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering and the Biomedical Engineering Society. He published widely (including 18 books) and was an international consultant on basic physiological function and the role of music in human adaptation. He was also an accomplished violinist and performed professionally. Dorita S. Berger is a concert pianist, an educator and a Board Certified music therapist. She is an international lecturer and consultant on music in human adaptation and its application in music therapy. Dorita runs a music therapy clinic in Norwalk, Connecticut, working with people with pervasive developmental disorders, autism, language learning delays, sensory issues and anxiety disorders. Her books include Music Therapy, Sensory Integration and the Autistic Child, also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers.