A Place to Be

On the Saturday of the 5th annual Appaloosa Festival an organization called “A Place to Be” presented the healing power of music. This is not just some good feeling, soul-searching activity.

Music therapy is a medical and psychological science based on the clinical use of music interventions. It helps clients to carry out goals within a therapeutic relationship between a them and the therapist. “A Place to Be” uses music to treat anything and everything, from stroke survivors to those on the autistic spectrum. Having started in Middleburg and expanded to four Inova hospitals, they are well credited in their treatments. Music Therapy is now accepted as a discipline alongside other paramedic professions such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and psychology in paramedic services and special education services provided by health and education authorities.

“A Place to Be” gathered in the workshop at Appaloosa to teach kids about Music Therapy. Photos by McCarthey Andrews.

At an interview with Music Therapist Brad Hassan, he explained exactly how music is used in some treatments. “In music there is tension and release, so we create tension with rhythm which motivates the patient. Rhythmic music helps people move more fluidly, singing supports speech recovery, preferred music can change affective states, associations can engage memory, all to help patients overcome their obstacles.” The effects of the treatment are incredible. Just one example was Ms. Dionna who suffers from a stuttering speech impediment, but after treatment was able to confidently stand on stage and sing beautifully.

Ms. Dionna performing on stage, showing how music therapy has helped her overcome her struggles.

Another example of music therapy’s treatment is the artist Daniel Derrico. Daniel suffered from a speech impediment most of his life, and it had started to become crippling when it prevented him from going to school or even communicating simple ideas. However, after participating with “A Place to Be,” not only did he overcome his impediment in simple tasks, Daniel also became a successful singer and songwriter. At Appaloosa he sang on stage in front of thousands without a single stuttered word. He still partners with and advocates for “A Place to Be” to help support others in overcoming their struggles.

Daniel Derrico, a member and advocate of “A Place to Be,” showing that a disability doesn’t have to get in the way of your dreams.

To learn more about “A Place to Be” and what music therapy can do, visit their homepage at: http://www.aplacetobeva.org/music-therapy.