USU Music Therapy Presents 'Muses': Annual Concert Celebrating Inspiration, Healing Through Music

LOGAN, Utah — The Caine College of the Arts Music Therapy Program will host its annual music therapy concert at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 30 in the Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall. The event will include performances as well as an interactive lobby experience.

This year’s theme, “Muses,” highlights the multi-faceted sources of inspiration for students professionally and personally. Muses emphasizes the concept of “self as instrument,” or being the instrument of change within the therapeutic relationship.

“The Muses concert itself was created as a space to consider the clients we work with and the music that inspires both client and therapist. A muse is a person who inspires us creatively,” said Maureen Hearns, professor and director of the program. “Often, our clients can be a muse for us as we help them explore their individuality, their strengths and their own creativity within themselves. Their vulnerability, perseverance and strength often inspires the music therapist who has the chance to witness their journey.”

Muses will provide a space for music therapy students to share the music they have been working on and gives them the opportunity to showcase their skills to the audience.

“Often, the students are playing for one individual in the hospital or a group of students within a school,” Hearns said. “Playing on a stage is an entirely different experience.”

Music Therapy students will also use this event to advocate for music therapy and educate attendees about what it is.

“Each song that will be shared in the Muses concert will be carefully selected based on how they would use that musical experience with a client,” Hearns said. “This gives the audience a total experience of what music therapy might look like in different settings and with individuals of different needs.”

At USU, music therapy graduates have a 100% pass rate on the national board certification exam and 100% job placement, showcasing not only the quality of the program, but also the talent and dedication of the students.

“Our students are the core of this concert,” Hearns said. “They plan what music they want to share and how they will use that to provide an experience for the audience that will deepen their understanding of music therapy. They put in hours of practice and preparation to execute a meaningful music experience for those who come.”

Attendees can look forward to a rich musical experience with original compositions and well-known classics in addition to an educational lobby experience.

“Our goal is always to connect with the broader community through this medium that we love so much,” Hearns said. “Our hope is that those who attend walk away feeling enriched and inspired to find the creativity within themselves.”

Muses is free and open to the public with no ticket required. For more information, visit the event website or the online calendar.