Live Harp Music as a Doorway to Healing

Music predates recorded history, and its roots may lie in rituals for healing. “Heal” comes from the same root as our word “whole.” “Healing” suggests the idea of wholeness or any movement toward wholeness.

The harp is a doorway to healing. Its history traces back some 3,000 years to Greek physicians using string vibrations to aid digestion and induce sleep.

Recently, there has been a renaissance in using the harp as a complementary therapy in healthcare settings. My Clinical Musician training continues on the foundation of offering therapeutic harp music holistically. Clinical studies are quantifying the therapeutic benefits of live harp music for regulating stress hormones, equalizing and slowing down brain waves, inducing restful sleep, and helping patients access peaceful states conducive to healing.

Live therapeutic harp music is a palliative, non-pharmacological modality and, in combination with the non-anxious presence of the musician, is an integral support in clinical settings.

"Listening to Jan play her therapeutic harp when she visits the Mother/Baby Unit is always a pleasure. I look forward to hearing her beautiful music during my stressful day. It's very relaxing and soothing. The staff and patients love hearing her play, especially when she plays lullabies for the babies."

On a personal note, Jan is a lovely, caring, pleasant woman. She always has a smile on her face, no matter how busy we are. Jan is very passionate about her music, which shows by how she plays. The staff and I hope she can continue to grace us all with her exceptional talent." -Kathy