I am currently at Eastern Michigan University studying in music therapy to obtain a bachelors of music.

 

I aim to utilize my passion for music and therapeutic abilities to create a beneficial influence in the lives of individuals dealing with physical, emotional, or cognitive hurdles. I am enthusiastic about applying my expertise and skills to a vibrant healthcare environment, all the while remaining committed to advancing my proficiency and development in Music Therapy.


I began singing at the age of six, and it quickly became my sanctuary. Despite being diagnosed with Asperger's and a learning disorder, which made schoolwork, socializing, and daily activities challenging, singing provided me with solace and therapy. It became my reliable source of comfort, consistently lifting my spirits. My personal journey has instilled in me a deep desire to support children facing similar struggles by providing them with access to music therapy resources that were unavailable to me in my youth. My hope is to offer them the same healing and empowerment that music has given me.

 

American music therapy association (AMTA)

Certification board for music therapist (CBMT)

The definition for music therapy, and a music therapist

"Music therapy is defined as the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals for people of all ages and ability levels within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program".

"A music therapist is an individual who has completed the education and clinical training requirements established by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) and who holds current board certification from The Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT)".

My philosophy of music therapy:

Music therapy can help everyone realize their full potential, heal, and generate joy. Music lets us express and connect with our inner selves. This naturally leads to achieving our goals in the bigger picture of our lives. Health should be looked at from all aspects, and music can be a way to do that in many ways.

Experience

 

Skills

  1. Guitar- Four semesters of class guitar. 
  2. Keyboard- Four semesters of class keyboard.
  3. Vocals-15 years of experience with professional voice training.
  4. Site-Reading- capable of quickly learning to play or sing any piece of music.
  5. Songwriting/ Composing- Skilled in formulating a harmonious melody paired with meaningful lyrics.

Clinical Experience / Practica

  1.  Fall 2022, Oct 10 thought Dec 5: engaged in Music Therapy Center sessions conducted via Zoom, catering to adults aged 47 with visual impairments and developmental disabilities.
  2.  Winter 2023,Feb,7, thought April18: The Interfaith Center For Spiritual Growth in Ann Arbor, engaged in Music Therapy with Older Adults in Parkinson's Group.

 


Videos

Wheels on the Bus : 

This intervention aims to enhance various domains, including listening, movement, cognition, communication, and self-expression. It also aids in memorization and vocabulary development. Typically designed for children aged 0 to 5, the song "The Wheels on the Bus" serves as the focal point.

Objective: To improve communication and language skills.

Approach: By the end of the month, the client or group will aim to vocalize or sing three phrases from "The Wheels on the Bus," thereby enhancing memory and vocabulary, with cues provided by the music therapist.

Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star;  

Engaging with children aged 5 to 10, particularly those with autism, this song targets their cortical speech and auditory regions. It facilitates enhanced processing of musical stimuli, aiding learning in areas of deficiency, such as social skills.

Goal: To improve language and listening abilities.

Objective: The client or group will aim to vocalize or sing three words within a given phrase from the song "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" by the end of the month, thereby enhancing memory and language skills with cues provided by the music therapist.

A Relaxation Technique for Breathing:

Spontaneous piano performance employing a musical relaxation technique aimed at aiding breathing and promoting calmness.

You Are My Sunshine :  

I am facilitating a music therapy experience by singing You Are My Sunshine. 

I Won't Say I'm in Love - 

This is an event from my role at Neverland Entertainment, where I portray Disney princesses or Marvel characters for children's birthday parties and events.

During this occasion, I took on the character of Megara from Hercules, entertaining both children and adults alike.

National Anthem:

Performing the National Anthem at Eastern Michigan University during a women's gymnastics meet in winter 2024 was a memorable experience. I have had the honor of singing the National Anthem at numerous sports events hosted by EMU.

Contact Me

Get in touch with me!!!!!

tlethorn@emich.edu