The World Federation of Music Therapy (WFMT) has completed an important process of reviewing and revising the official definition of music therapy. The Working Group for Reviewing and Revising the Definition of Music Therapy, appointed during the WFMT Council term 2023–2026, led this international effort in collaboration with the Regional Liaisons (RLs) as representatives of the global music therapy community.
Through a collaborative and consultative process, the group developed a proposed revised definition, which was accepted by the working group and subsequently presented to the WFMT Council for consensus and approval.
The new definition was officially announced during the General Business Meeting of the WFMT at the 18th World Congress of Music Therapy, held in Bologna, Italy, in July 2026.
The revised definition of music therapy is presented below:
"Music therapy is a professional discipline that uses music-based experiences, such as listening, singing, playing instruments or improvisation, to promote health, well-being, capacity and development at a personal and social level.
It is delivered by trained professionals within a therapeutic relationship and is an adaptable, inclusive, therapeutic modality that serves individuals, groups and communities across clinical, educational, cultural and virtual settings.
Music therapy practice is research-based, shaped by professional education and clinical training, guided by ethical responsibility and informed by social, cultural and political context."
(WFMT, 2026).
