Music therapy is actually a field all on it's own, being applied frequently for cognitive and behavioral problems, to develop motor skills, to enhance the well-being of those with long term illnesses and the elderly, to enhance relaxation and in recovery work for those that have experienced strokes. Besides it's official therapeutic applications, we've surely all applied music as an antidote to the myriad of life's challenges. In the past, Rage Against the Machine was my angry music, while Sarah MacLachlan spoke to my - perhaps overly dramatic - emotional life and the Lemonheads tended to my happy-go-lucky outlook. Things have changed and new music is always on the horizon, though my appreciation for all music runs deep.
I know you know what I mean. When the beat or the artistic combination of each instrument in a piece of music just takes you away. Music is, always has been and will continue to be enchanting and transformational for the human spirit. It gives our hearts, minds and souls a voice, not to mention brings life and being to our creative inclinations. And as if that wasn't enough, it moves us to heights that, at times, remain inexplicable. It entices profound emotion and facilitates experiences where entire rooms or fields-full of strangers suddenly become one.
Take advantage of The City Of Champions' summer events, many of which include great, live music. Here's a little glimpse of what you could take in to create your very own, local music therapy:
Edmonton International Jazz Festival
Canada Day - Celebrate Canada 2010 Events
Edmonton International Street Performers Festival
Capital Ex
Blueberry Bluegrass and Country Music Festival
Cariwest: Edmonton's Caribbean Arts Festival
Edmonton's Labatt Blues Festival
Roberta Shepherd for Prana Holistic
