I had the amazing opportunity of meeting with Dr.Concetta M. Tomaino, the director of the Institute For Music and Neurologic Function at Beth Abraham Family of Health Services in the Bronx...they have a full floor of music / rehearsal rooms and the energy is overwhelming. The services have received donations off famous musicians such as Moby! He donated his recording equipment...They use Music therapy for all types of individuals with multiple diseases and difficulties - a care facility that cares for chronically ill and disabled adults through the New York metropolitan area. They use music in various ways to enable positive health and well-being...both physically and emotionally.
Dr Tomaino is also a top researcher on the Music and Brain relationship and also carries out collaborative work with Dan Cohen, the director of 'Music and Memory' -with a program named 'Well-Tuned'. They both see instant results through music and how this can tap on memories and psychological issues to improve overall life with individuals who have cognitive impairments or Dementia.
After talking with Dr Tomaino i was able to observe Music Therapy with Therapist Tom. We went down to the care facility and i got to meet Freddie. A middle aged man who had been in a serious car accident around 10 years ago, struggling with speech, fine motor skills and walking he finds music therapeutic and enjoyable. He was able to play guitar before the accident and this skill has stayed with him throughout. It was so powerful when he picked up the guitar and began playing 'Amazing Grace' from his bed... to have this embedded in the community - can really make a difference. Music has similar effects on individuals with Dementia....as seen in previous organisations.
