Adults Need Music (Therapy), Too
According to YouGov Surveys (2022), 66% of Americans have learned to play a musical instrument at some point. Sadly, not many of them stick with it. According to that same survey, less than half (41%) of those who learned to play the guitar, for example, are still playing. Many of them regret giving it up. Only a small percentage of those who learned to play gain enough expertise that they make it part of their career. These people become professional performers, composers, music teachers, and music therapists.
Even though the level of skill and involvement in music varies between individuals across the lifespan, music is still a valued art form for many people. For some people, it’s inextricably linked to their culture. Others simply find great satisfaction in musical activities outside of their occupations, participating in church choirs, community bands, orchestras, or social dancing. Even if they have no particular musical skills, many adults just enjoy listening to music.
Our society spends a lot of money participating in music, going to concerts, buying stereo equipment, and paying for music streaming services, CDs, and other recordings. The U.S. Bureau of Labor estimates it at up to 40% of our income. All of these activities, active or passive, contribute to our sense of belonging, enjoyment, and self-expression. Most adults have favorite music genres and artists, often associating certain kinds of music and specific songs with important events and people in their lives.
When I first talk to someone about being a board-certified music therapist, they often tell me stories about how music has positively impacted their lives. I love hearing that because I want people to do well. When we struggle, however, music therapy offers a focused environment for real therapeutic change. Music can be a powerful tool for more than just temporary stress relief and entertainment. It offers a flexible and powerful therapeutic medium for evoking and exploring emotions, memories, and social connections. Even for adults.
