AMTA 41st Conference

The 2015 Australian Music Therapy Conference was held in Sydney on the 18th and 19th of October.  Read more about AMTA... An incredible range of papers were presented with a great balance of research and clinical work.  I thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity to re-connect with the music therapy community and hear of the amazing work going on around Australia.  From an international perspective, we had Professor Gary Ansdell as the keynote speaker.  His new book: How Music Helps in Music Therapy and Everyday Life is now available. 

Regards, Al Fuller

Guest Lecture at WSU

Today I presented a guest lecture at Western Sydney University (WSU) for second year Music Therapy Masters students. WSU (previously UWS) has recently re-branded as part of their "Securing Success 2015-2020" strategic plan.  Read more about WSU...

The lecture was titled: "Music Therapy for Young Children and their Families, Reflections from 20 years as a Registered Music Therapist".  I shared aspects of my professional story and included video footage, case material and program examples from my work at Giant Steps Sydney, Music Therapy Centre Northern Beaches, Sing&Grow AUSTRALIA and my new venture social enterprise - MusicConnect.  

Themes/topics shared included:

  • Assessment/Evaluation in Music Therapy

  • Including Visual Supports/Aids within Music Therapy Sessions

  • Music Resources for Families to Engage in Music Making at Home

  • The Use of Technology within Clinical Work, Evaluation & Business

The students were very receptive to the information, engaging in sharing and discussion.  I wish them all the best as they embark on their final research papers and assessments in the lead up to registration with the AMTA (Australian Music Therapy Association).  Many thanks to Alison Short for the invitation to meet with and present to the students.  

Regards, Al Fuller