Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I begin to explore the possibilities of music for my loved one?

   The best way is to start a dialogue with a professional involved in providing therapeutic music experiences. The Foundation for Music and Healing, Inc. has various means of reaching out to us so that we can begin to share information. Click on Contact Us.

2. Who could benefit from this special type of music program?

   Everyone is given a boost through music! From playing musical instrument to simply listening — music has profound effects on the human experience. See our funwithmusic.info website for further information.

3. At what age should music instruction be considered for a child?

   Traditionally, around age six was thought to be an ideal time to start music lessons. Increasingly, though, physicians, therapists and other health care professionals are urging parents of students who have special needs to explore music and movement activities at earlier ages. The Foundation for Music and Healing, Inc. has been approached by parents of children as young as 18 months.

4. How can I tell if this would be of benefit to my child?

   The most important thing to realize is that we offer a unique environtment of healthful music and movement designed specifically around each student so they may flourish on their own terms. The process begins with a telephone call to Dr. Robinson at which time he can arrange a free evaluation attended by the student and parents to assess what benefits that individual may expect.

5. What is involved in the free evaluation?

   This is an extended period of time that allows the instructor to get better acquainted with the student and parents. The student is encouraged to bring a CD, toy or other favorite object that they can talk about and be more comfortable with. The evaluation itself is free of charge, but there is a fee of $30 to cover the cost of materials. A free copy of Dr. Robinson's book, "Making Our Own Kind of Music" is included in this introductory session.

6. What kinds of training are employed?

   One on one lessons with the music coach may cover use of Piano, General Music, Singing, Guitar, Dance Movement and Drumming.

7. How often are lessons given?

   The frequency of lessons is determined one on one for each student, but in general, once a week is a good guideline.

8. How do you measure success?

   Our organization is less concerned with quantitative measures that are traditionally used and more focused on the qualitative experience each student enjoys. Chapters 2, 7 and 8 of our new book explore this all-important issue in greater detail.

9. Why should I consider music instead of some other activity?

   Music competes with an increasing number of activities. Parents and students must decide whether music and movement are beneficial to them. The key question is: are people willing to make space for this type of beneficial activity in their lives?

10. What does RAISE Everyone! mean?

    These words and letters represent a cluster of activities engaged in by Foundation personnel, students and family members. The exact meaning is detailed in our new book, Making Our Own Kind of Music in chapter 6.

11. What do you mean by the terms "music and movement?"

    Music is probably understood by most people as the act of using instruments, including the human voice, to make pleasing sounds. Movement, as the Foundation defines it, can involve dance or other types of aerobic motion to express joy when hearing music.

12. How do you decide where it is best to conduct music experiences?

    Some students are better taught in their own homes. Others are able to come to Foundation studios in the community, depending on each individual need. Orientation and evaluation procedures conducted by Foundation personnel will open up this subject so that it can be resolved to the benefit of each student.

13. How can I best support my loved one as they participate in music and movement?

    By being willing to find out more about this unique kind of program. And, further, by being present during each lesson as they explore this wonderful world.

14. Do you only work with students who have special needs?

    Most Foundation personnel work with a wide range of students of all abilities, including those who have special needs and those who do not.

15. How much does it cost?

    Fees for these services are $150 for four 30 minute lessons per month in the studio..

16. Where can I learn more?

    Dr. Chris Robinson has written an excellent book called "Making Our Own Kind of Music" which is available online at www.musichealing.org and at most bookstores.