Music Therapy

Evidence 

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/imhj.21346 

Stephen Malloch, Helen Shoemark, Rudi Črnčec, Carol Newnham, Campbell Paul, Margot Prior, Sean Coward, Denis Burnham 

Infants seek contingent, companionable interactions with others. Infants in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), while receiving care that optimizes their chances of survival, often do not have the kind of interactions that are optimal for their social development. Live music therapy (MT) with infants is an intervention that aims for contingent, social interaction between therapist and infant.  

Education 

Music therapy in the neonatal unit is a specialised practice delivered by a Registered Music Therapist (RMT). It uses live music and the intentional use of sound to support premature and sick babies, their parents and the parent-infant relationship. 

Music therapy is evidence-based and has been shown to positively support babies and families in the following areas: 

• Neurodevelopmental Support 

Preterm and sick babies are born at a time when their brains are still developing rapidly. They can be very sensitive to sound and stimulation. 

Music therapy uses gentle, live music to match your baby’s needs and stage of development. This can support brain development, promote self-regulation, and provide a safe and soothing sensory experience. 

• Mental Health Support  

Having a baby in the Neonatal unit is emotionally overwhelming and can increase stress, anxiety, or feelings of helplessness for parents. 

Music therapy provides opportunities for parents to connect with their baby through voice, song and rhythm, which can strengthen bonding and reduce stress for both parent and baby. 

The parent-infant relationship is central in the Neonatal unit and music therapy can support closeness, attachment and positive shared experiences, even during challenging times. 

• Physiological Stability and Pain Management 

Medical procedures and the Neonatal unit environment can be stressful for babies. Music therapy may help reduce signs of pain, stabilise heart rate and improve oxygen saturation. 

Gentle live singing or humming can support babies in staying calm during and after procedures or while adjusting to the Neonatal unit environment. 

Music therapy can also be used alongside medical care to promote comfort and stability. 

Empowerment 

While music therapy in the hospital is always provided by a Registered Music Therapist, parents are encouraged to use their own voices with their babies. Your voice is unique and familiar – it is already your baby’s favourite sound. Singing or humming softly to your baby can be a powerful way to comfort them, strengthen your bond and create moments of calm in a busy hospital environment. 

You don’t need to be a “good singer.” What matters most is the connection and comfort your voice provides. Songs can be lullabies, gentle humming, or even speaking softly in a rhythmic and soothing way. Many parents choose songs that are special to them or part of their family’s culture. 

Useful Links 

Miracle Babies Foundation – Singing with your Baby 

https://www.miraclebabies.org.au/content/singing/gmjy2w 

Australian Music therapy association  

https://www.austmta.org.au/news-item/17227/music-therapy-in-the-neonatal-intensive-care-unit 

HNE Kids Health  

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1145519242499292 

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