Frequently Asked Questions
Therapeutic music is an art based on the science of sound. It is live acoustic music, played or sung, specifically tailored to the patient’s immediate need, which brings music’s intrinsic healing value to the bedside of the ailing.
There are many types of instruments that are appropriate for bedside work and can be used in this program. We have students and graduates who use the harp, keyboard, Native American flute, viola, voice, flute, guitar, hammered dulcimer, auto-harp, and others. Some instruments, such as the trumpet, trombone, piccolo, banjo, saxophone, accordion, or other instruments with loud or piercing sound would not be suitable for this work.
There is not a strict time frame for completing the program. Your musical proficiency when you enter the program and the amount of time you have to devote to the program will be the main factors in how long it takes to complete the program. Most students take 6 to 12 months to complete each level, while a few have completed both levels in as little as 4-6 months.
No, the program is designed for flexibility and to allow students to adjust the time they are spending on the program based on life situations that arise. However, in order remain on "active" status and avoid penalties, a student must stay in contact with his/her mentor and make some sort of forward motion in the course. A student who does not contact his/her mentor and/or has no forward movement for six months will be placed on "inactive" status and will be required to pay a fee in order to return to "active" status. After a period of inactivity, a student may be required to purchase updated materials if necessary.
Harp for Healing CMCP has students and graduates around the world in more than 20 different countries. The availability of email and on-line platforms like Zoom, Facetime, and others make it fairly easy to communicate over long distances. All course materials are in English, so a high proficiency in written and spoken English is essential for successful completion of the program.
Authorized CMCP mentors are graduates of this program who are experienced in the field. Each CMCP student is assigned a mentor who is available by phone, email, and/or online platforms. CMCP mentors answer questions, provide feedback and coaching on clinical music skills and experiences, provide guidance on moving through the course, offer encouragement, and support any self-imposed deadlines. The mentors tailor their support to meet each student’s needs.
Students must be at least 16 years of age to begin CMCP Level 1. For Level 2, a student must be 18 years of age or older to receive certification.
Students should be very comfortable with their instrument and have at least a late beginner or intermediate skill level to enter the program. Some musical skills can be developed while working through the course, but teaching beginning skills is beyond the scope of CMCP. To see samples of late beginner or intermediate harp music, visit Anne Crosby Gaudet's website listing of Elementary level music.
Students need to be able to play in a smooth, flowing and calming manner and be comfortable with their instrument and the therapeutic music style of playing. By its nature, therapeutic music is simple and less complex than performance music – virtuosity is not required.
You will want to consider each NSBTM accredited program’s philosophy, delivery style and cost to determine what fits best with your needs and learning style. Feel free to call or email us to better understand how our program works.