CompleteLife Musical Experience
The musical experiences at the IU Simon Cancer Center include live music performances, music therapy and music therapy research.
Live Music Performances
Live music performances from area musicians are periodically scheduled during clinic hours. These performances are supported in part by a generous gift from the Robert and Carol Libs Performing Arts Program.
Music Therapy
According to the Music Therapy Association, music therapy is an established health profession in which music is used to address physical, emotional, mental and social needs of individuals. Carefully planned music therapy sessions can help you relax, change your mood, express your feelings and reduce your pain.
Music therapists are health professionals. When involved in your treatment team, music therapists measure your strengths and needs and provide suggestions for therapy which may involve making music, moving to music, music psychotherapy and music relaxation. Sessions are designed and music selected based on individual preferences, goals, circumstances and need. You do not need to have a prior musical training to benefit from music therapy.
Board-certified music therapist Kristin Story helps improve the cancer experience for IU Simon Cancer Center patients and families with music therapy. Music therapy is offered both in the Indiana Cancer Pavilion and at Indiana University Hospital. To see a music therapist, notify your doctor or nurse, or contact Kristin Story by e-mailing kristory@iupui.edu or paging 312-2792.
Music Therapy Research
Board-certified music therapist Dr. Deb Burns conducts music therapy research and helps develop evidence-based music therapy programs. Dr. Sheri Robb also conducts music therapy research with children who have cancer.
Research suggests that music can help individuals of all ages cope with cancer by:
- enhancing relaxation, feelings of happiness, self-worth and well-being
- encouraging positive thoughts and experiences
- decreasing muscle tension, blood pressure, pain and nausea
- reducing anxiety, anger, sadness and fatigue
More information:
What is Music Therapy? (IU Simon Cancer Center)
Music Therapy Association
Music Soothes Distress of Cancer Treatment (American Cancer Society)