Maine University Students
1) “I enjoyed this class, I found it interesting.”
2) “(the classes) balanced out in a positive way from lecture, videos, to instruments and group discussions.”
3) “ This class showed me how music therapy can bring joy and happiness into peoples’ lives. Not only positive feelings but (also) physical and communication skills and much, much more.”
4) “ I think many people will benefit from this information. I definitely will use this information in my future work.”
5) “This class is very informative and moving…I came into this class blind and you opened my eyes to music therapy. It is a great and moving subject.”
6) “The presentation style of this course was a welcome change from the trend …now of simply using Powerpoint lectures. It is in this manner the instructor was able to better fit the lessons to students needs and interests…This course is most certainly one that I would/will recommend to my peers…. Honestly, the most interactive and interesting class I’ve had all year.”
7) “ This class was a good, positive learning experience. It helped me see what music therapy is all about and the benefits. It was a learning experience that I found enjoyable. I liked looking at information on the websites as well as learning information in class.”
8) ”I liked the wealth of knowledge from the professor’s stories…about music therapy experiences. The class discussions helped my understanding. The research was fun and gave me another way to learn about music therapy and things related. I feel like the class ws presented in a way I really could benefit from. I am a visual learner so the videos and research on the computer gave me an easier way to learn the material.”
9) ”Playing the musical instruments everyday is something I look forward to.”
10) “I like having a “hands on” experience.”
11) “The class is presented as a comfortable, more laid back atmosphere at most times. This makes it easier to learn, not extremely stressful.”
12) “it is good to have someone teaching the class who is enthusiastic about the subject."
13)“I think you have great illustrations and personal stories that really bring the subject to life.”
UMO Graduate level course MUY 298 July 2009
“The only aspect of this course I feel was lacking was the amount of time we spend in class. Too short! (It was totally awesome)…The topics covered were all extremely important…This course has opened up my heart and mind to a subject more or less unknown to me. (It will) without a doubt help me to not only be a better educator but a better person as well, (more) loving, patient, understanding and empathetic.”
“I feel that I am walking away with a great amount of knowledge for music therapy. When the course started I knew very little of this particular therapy.”
“I like the way the instructor gently guided the class through the content…He exhibits a passion and deep knowledge of content and presents in a quiet, organized way…I would recommend this to anyone working in a school. I wish my principal had attended…This course broadend my knowledge and gave me another way of thinking about what I do and how I teach. This course keeps me on my toes- reminds me to keep learning, trying, changing. Thank you.”
“I enjoyed the case study videos tremenduosly; they reinforced your words and explanations. I enjoyed learning about your experiences and work in Japan and Russia…I feel that you exposed us to the true meaning of Music Therapy. Your passion about this subject come through in all you do!... I will recommend this course to other special ed teachers, administrators and other therapists and educators. I will also recommend this course to some parents I know of children with special needs. I am happy that I took this course! I feel that even though I am not a therapist I have something in my “toolbox” that will enrich the lives of the children I work with.”
“This course has given me new ways to reach out to the children I work with”
“This course has provided great ideas for me to use in my social work practice. I will bring the knowledge of music therapy with me to work with children who are resistant or angry.”
“Your being willing to adapt to what the specific interests of the class were was very beneficial…I feel that this class should be required for understanding students…We all work with special needs children and this hands-on, visual illustrative approach is vital in working with …all young children.”
“I really liked the hands-on experience. I liked trying the instruments and finding ways to make connections wither with classmates or with Alan. Experiencing that process was a great way to get a send of what students/clients might feel in a similar situation. Communicating without words is so unusual these days…The creative process is so important and the ability to reach people through music is so underdeveloped. I want more teachers to get it and encourage the pursuit of Music Therapy in schools, then, on to other settings- hospitals, nursing homes, etc.)
“Alan presented this course as a music therapist would, in a helpful and caring way. On Friday of that week we hated to see the end as we were getting into the “meat of the subject.” It was obvious that Alan is passionate about music therapy and that can take it a long way. I can see the broadness and depth of this course developing into a degree course, something that could benefit the people of Maine. What a blessing to have Alan come to us at the University.”
Testimonials from Parents of Children with Disabilities.
“Thank you very much. I had such a wonderful time the other day. My son looked so happy. Of course I also felt happy. We are lucky…to now know about music therapy.” Mother of a Japanese child with disabilities
“During the course of time in which you (work with my son) eye contact, vocalizing, words (as well as two word phrases) and tolerance for certain stimuli, greatly increases…This is just to let you know how valuable the type of therapy you do is. The part you play in (his) life is making it easier for him to cope with his world and opening it up to him.” Mother of a child with autism
“Since (my son) has started back with you I’ve seen wonderful changes. He’s even more happy then he was, concentration (focusing) has increased and eye contact as well.” Mother of a child with autism
“Your work with (my son) this morning brought tears to my eyes- the two of you were working at the keys so well together. That is, of course, a tribute to your skills, intuition, and hopes. I appreciated the work, as well as your insights into his psychology and self-concept. Thank you for your efforts.” Father of a child with autism
