Abstract

This research involved the creation of music therapy interventions making use of the viola within a music-centered music therapy framework. The researcher elaborates on her background and experience using the viola as her primary instrument, which contributes to the design of four separate interventions. The literature review reveals that there are a number of music therapists who have evaluated the use of their primary instrument in a self-reflexive manner; these accounts were used to further examine the importance of using one’s own musicality and create a guideline for the use of viola. The music-centered music therapy orientation as conceptualized by Kenneth Aigen is summarized and supports the ideas regarding the aesthetic qualities and how they influence clinical goals. The interventions developed included using the viola for improvisation, receptive listening, conducting, and movement to music. Steps were described within each intervention in order for other music therapists to be able to follow and replicate them as easily as possible. Considerations to be aware of before implementing each intervention are discussed, such as assessment and evaluation information for clients, as well as indications and contraindications that may emerge. While the research served to create the interventions from a music-centered perspective based on past studies on one’s primary instrument in music therapy, the interventions were not tested. Future research that could test these interventions would be beneficial for the growth of knowledge within this field, particularly by music therapists who can provide a different viewpoint and perspective.