02/17/2026
Music therapy can be a wonderful benefit of hospice care, but what does it involve, exactly? Simply put, music therapy is the use of music to gain physical and emotional healing and wellness.
We talked with our music therapist, Sarah, about her work. Here's what she says:
1. Is there a music style you prefer in sessions?
One of the most important things is using patient preferred music. Each person has their own unique preferences, and music therapy is never one-size-fits-all. Session plans are individualized to honor each patient’s preferences, strengths, and goals.
2. What makes music therapy different from listening to recordings?
Music therapists are trained to use both live and recorded music intentionally and therapeutically. Within live music experiences, music therapists can adjust tempo, dynamics, and structure in real time to support singing, movement, emotional regulation, and participation.
3. What's the most rewarding part of your job?
My favorite part of being a hospice music therapist is creating meaningful legacy projects, like a personalized songbook or a heartbeat recording. Through these projects, I have the privilege of honoring each person’s life, celebrating their individuality, and bringing comfort to both patients and their families.
