As musicians, we have all studied music intensely for years, and for many of us, even decades. We know and understand music on a very deep level and bring that knowledge into our clinical work and classrooms every day.
Because our knowledge is so intrinsic, sometimes we forget how complex and special music really is. We’re somewhat blind to the special power that we have, which is our deep understanding of music and how to utilize it.
So, I’m remedying this blind spot! My upcoming blog posts will focus on the various elements of music and how to highlight them in music therapy sessions and music classes.
Leading up to the launch of Innovative Income for Music Therapists: Beyond Direct Service & Private Practice, I was in a perpetual state of stress. There was SO much to do, between finishing up the audiobook, writing the emails, prepping the social media posts, and making sure the website was updated and ready for orders.
Now that I’m almost two weeks out from the initial launch, I can happily say that my stress levels have drastically decreased, and I’ve been able to actually enjoy the fruits of my year-long labor (starting with the surprise party my amazing friends and husband organized the night of launch).
I always keep my music next to me in my Listen & Learn classes.
Memorizing repertoire can be a daunting task. For some people, it is incredibly difficult to do. It is time consuming. You may not even be sure if those around you care or benefit from the music being memorized or not. It can be an internal battle when deciding whether to memorize a song or not.
When teaching classes and providing music therapy sessions, memorization of pieces can be crucial to the success of an experience, or it could really not matter in the grand scheme of things. Throughout my week, I utilize three different methods: memorization, having my music off to the side, and putting the music on a stand in front of me.
Here is what I consider when deciding which setup to use.
Music therapists, musicians, music educators, and music students tend to have an abundance of repertoire. It can definitely be difficult to keep track of everything. How to organize this music has been a hot topic in many circles I am a part of.
I have personally used both the electronic and paper routes of repertoire organization. There are pros and cons to each format. Let’s take a look at them below.
Wow, has January been a whirlwind of a month. Shortly after the start of a new year and new decade, my private practice and teaching studio went into full swing, including a full slate of fresh music classes for children ranging from early childhood to early elementary ages. On top of that, I got to launch my new book and 6 CMTE course, Innovative Income for Music Therapists, earlier this week.
Suffice it to say that in February, my plan is to REST. In fact, that is one of my goals for 2020 — not only to get more sleep, but to enjoy downtime without feeling antsy. My mind and body are still in turbo-mode, so I’m looking forward to next month and the opportunity to chill.
Welcome! I’m Rachel Rambach, board-certified music therapist and creator of Listen & Learn Music — educational songs and musical materials for children. I love sharing my work with you, along with my behind-the-scenes creative process, adventures in business ownership, and life as a mom of two little ones.
New Book + 6 CMTE Course!
This is the book + course that will help you shape your music therapy career in order to make more money and live your ideal lifestyle. Details here.
Session Plans
Next month’s music therapy sessions, early childhood groups, or classroom music…planned for you in advance.
Free Download
Click the image below for this free resource and song collection!
