Meet our Music Therapists! 

When did your passion for music begin? 

At 6 years old, I came home from school with a violin in hand, and the rest is history. As soon as the beginner’s ‘squeaks’ turned into recognisable tunes, the violin never left my side. I would perform to anyone who would listen. 

What does music mean to you? 

To me, music is the ultimate freedom. There are no limits to what can be created, what it can make you feel, and what connections can form when people come together in music. It gives soul to people, situations, and places in ways that words sometimes can’t. 

Why did you decide to become a music therapist? 

I’ve been a music therapist for almost 2 years. I pursued music therapy after seeing the extraordinary effects of participatory music on a family member who was living with dementia. I saw the light come back into my grandmother’s eyes when she was singing Christmas carols with me. 

What does music therapy with our children and young adults involve? 

Every session is completely different and tailored to the child or young adult. It can range from us making spontaneous music together, based on the physical movements a young person offers, to creating music based on their breathing rhythm or blinking. We also learn Makaton songs and take part in talent shows too! 

What do you think children and young adults get out of doing music therapy? 

Young people get to experience a close connection that isn’t dependent on words. They also get to be in control of the situation, which they might not often have in their lives. They gain rich social connection based on what they can do instead of focusing on what might be limiting for them. 

What does ‘hospice care’ mean to you? 

‘Hospice care’ is about receiving high-quality support to experience dignity, connection, and personal expression.

When did your passion for music begin? 

When I was a teenager, I used to get CDs from my brother and sister. I remember hearing music and thinking it was nice to listen to, but I wanted to be part of the playing culture, so my friends and I began teaching ourselves guitar. 

What does music mean to you? 

Playing together with family and friends feels like a different way of interacting, especially if you’re improvising. It’s almost like a dance. 

How did music become your career? 

It wasn’t obvious that it would be a career at first. I studied anthropology as a degree because I was always interested in people and cultures. I didn’t hear about music therapy until I was in my 30s. It seemed like an ideal match for me. 

What does your music therapy at St Oswald’s Hospice involve? 

I work on a one-to-one basis and in group sessions, which is a mixture of mainly improvising with instruments, singing, and playing songs together. I also work with patients and their families, sharing stories and talking about music that means a lot to them, and I’m involved in the open choir. 

What do you think people get out of music therapy? 

For some, it’s a chance to try music for the first time and realise they can be part of it. There’s also a social side for people who may be coming from isolated situations. There’s an excitement that goes along with making music together, and it’s great to be part of that. The circumstances that patients at St Oswald’s Hospice are in are so powerful, and sometimes that’s not always easy to comprehend. Music can help with understanding and allows them to focus on something meaningful. 

What does hospice care mean to you? 

It’s all about listening to people and valuing their individuality. 

Thank you to our Music Therapists, Tom and Scarlett, for bringing your talent, compassion, and connection to St Oswald’s Hospice!