To serve an ever-increasing variety of patient populations, music therapists draw from an extensive array of music exercises, strategies and interventions. The most common include . . .

chanting, singing and toning combined
envisioning imagery
feeling vibrotactile sensations
improvising existing lyrics
listening to live or recorded music
moving to music
playing "non-musician-proof” instruments
singing
toning, vocalizing and holding vowels
writing lyrics for original pieces of music

Composing songs can help express emotions. Playing the piano can improve fine motor skills. Playing rhythm instruments can release unspoken emotions. Breathing to a rhythm can relax and sedate. Moving to music can restore a natural gait. Melody can recall memories associated with lyrics.