We are so lucky to live in a world where music is so accessible! Now, more than ever, there are so many options to consider when looking to add more music to your life.
At TKAM, we offer quality music lessons to a variety of ages and abilities. While many of our teachers provide lessons to students with disabilities or differing needs/diagnoses, we differ from music therapists who provide music therapy sessions.
Here is a quick rundown on the differences between our music lessons, and music therapy!
What Is Music Therapy?
To be brief, music therapy helps clients actively work towards non-musical goals, through music! Non-musical goals can include motor skills, communication and speech, mental health, and much more.
Certified music therapists (MTA designation) have completed either a Bachelor's or Master's degree in music therapy, a 1000-hour internship, and passed a board certification exam.
How do I know if I'm looking for music therapy sessions or music lessons?
If you or your loved one are looking to address non-musical goals through music, music therapy may be a better fit for you. Music therapists assess clients and develop personalized treatment plans for their clients.
In music lessons, teachers work entirely on musical goals. While confidence and strength may improve in lessons, the student's role first and foremost is to learn an instrument. Long story short, we do not actively work towards non-musical goal - only musical!
Do you provide music therapy sessions at TKAM?
While we are hopeful to develop a music therapy program at TKAM, this is a long-term goal for us.
Currently, we are only providing music lessons, music groups, and summer camps.
Do you provide music lessons to disabled or special needs students?
Yes! Many of our teachers have experience working with students with a variety of abilities. These teachers create flexible, enjoyable lessons based on their students learning styles and needs.
When you are registering a potential student who is disabled or has special needs, we simply ask that you inform us! By letting us know more about the student, we are able to better pick a teacher who will be a great fit for them.
What do music lessons for disabled or special needs students look like TKAM?
There are so many ways to teach music! Our teachers are well-versed in multiple teaching styles. That way music lessons are ALWAYS personalized to the student, no matter their age or ability.
For example:
Learning by ear instead of by reading sheet music
Using stickers on the instrument to provide visual cues for the student
Incorporating breaks and music listening when the student feels overwhelmed
And more!
Our teachers are patient, kind, and more than happy to try multiple styles of teaching when working with students.
How do I sign up for lessons?
Please email us at: tkaminfo@gmail.com
And we will be happy to answer your questions and/or set up a date and time for your lessons!
Where can I find music therapy in the community?
There are a variety of music therapy clinics and services in the KW area!
If you are interested in music therapy, please check out the following websites which can guide your education and choice in music therapy services. Please note TKAM is not affiliated with these organizations.
Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT): musictherapy.ca
Music Therapy Association of Ontario (MTAO):
Home page: musictherapyontario.com
Directory of Music Therapists: https://www.musictherapyontario.com/find-a-music-therapist
As always, should you have any questions or concerns - please reach out!
Email: tkaminfo@gmail.com
Facebook & Instagram: @thekitcheneracademyofmusic