My Experience of Playing Live Therapeutic Music at St. Mary’s Hospital

By David Singer, CPM

I work as a part-time Certified Music Practitioner (CMP) at St. Mary’s Hospital, playing live therapeutic music (LTM) on my portable keyboard for patients at their bedside. This work has easily become the most fulfilling and amazing work that I’ve ever done in my life. It’s an emotional rollercoaster for sure to see such suffering, but I am witness to the fact that LTM brings much peace and serenity to patients, their visitors, and even staff.

For example, I was recently asked to play for a newly diagnosed cancer patient who was going through a lot of anxiety and emotional issues. When I walked into her room, she was lying in bed, and she looked as though she was quite agitated and probably also under the effects of pain medication. I asked her if I could play some soft, soothing music for her, and she slowly nodded her head and softly mouthed the word, “yes.”

I felt that nothing more needed to be said.  After taking a few deep breaths to center myself, I began to play a few notes, very softly, then added a few more notes, then blended in some soothing melodies that I believe connected with her inner being. I continued playing in this manner, changing to different songs only sparingly, but also adding a lot of improvisation and space to the music. The patient’s eyes closed, and she soon drifted off to a peaceful sleep. I quietly left the room, knowing that the music was just what her body needed to rest and begin the road to recovery and healing.

This is just one example of how LTM has the power to heal in ways that, on the surface, are mysterious, yet when used as a complementary clinical intervention, it helps patients stabilize or better manage various symptoms like pain, anxiety, agitation, respiratory distress, sleep deprivation, dementia, or nearing the end of life. Also, the human-to-human interaction in real time between the musician and the patient is a powerful one.

On a more personal level, I’m honored and blessed to be able to serve patients, visitors, and staff through live therapeutic music at a hospital that cares so much about bringing in-the-moment comfort to the patient’s whole being. I can attest to the joy I experience in offering live therapeutic music and making a difference in the lives of others by being a healing presence to them.  I can’t imagine having a job that is more rewarding.