Music therapy is relatively new in South Africa, with the University of Pretoria offering the only training programme that is recognised by the Health Professions Council of South Africa. The course attracts both national and international students, who come from different backgrounds, including music, psychology, social work, and medicine, and who recognise the ability of music to reach a wide range of people in South African contexts. I recently spoke to Sané Leach, Leigh-Ann Burger, and Kirstyn Botha, three students in this year’s graduating class, about their experiences of the course, and their views on MT in South Africa.C: What did you find was the most beneficial aspect of the course?S: I honestly have to say everything. The world class theoretical input and the very insightful practical work. I have never learned so much about people, working with people therapeutically, and the power of music utilised correctly.LA: The journey of self-discovery stirred by the course facilitates a more authentic capacity to work with others on their journey of self-discovery and healing.K: I feel that the clinical internship has been the most valuable. That, in collaboration with supervision, has moulded me into the music therapist that I am today. My supervisors have been very open and honest with me, and they have been constantly available to assist in any way over the past two years.C: Why do you think MT is important in South Africa? S: Firstly, the fact that MT is so adaptable fits in with our rainbow nation and the need to understand and empower every individual no matter their background or language. Additionally, MT works non-verbally, crossing many boundaries effectively. I am also aware of the difficulties people in South Africa are faced with every day, and MT is a great way for people to express and understand their emotions and relationships towards others and life events.LA: Our country is resourced with a variety of musical elements that flow through us all; we cannot escape the influence of cultures not our own, and MT can tap into these resources and mend separation within the individual, and between people.K: MT is important in South Africa as it can be applicable in many different circumstances and situations. South Africa has many needs and I feel that MT can be used to assist in these needs, whether this be in community settings, group work, or working one on one in medical settings. I feel that South Africa is, especially, lacking assistance to those who communicate in unconventional manners, or lack this skill, and I feel that MT is the most appropriate form of therapy for this particular clientele.C: What are you most excited about going into the field now?S: I think the fact that you never stop learning. Going into the field will be as going into the University of Life. At the same time, I am extremely excited to share MT with the world and hopefully make a difference in people's lives through this medium.LA: The endless possibilities that I can initiate for myself, and thus, future music therapists in SA.K: I am most excited to be working with clients on a regular basis and educating the general population about music therapy, the benefits that are associated with it and how it can be used for any person or pathology. I feel that South Africa, and the world, need more people to be advocating for this profession, and I feel that I will play a vital role in this.Caitlin Schulze, South AfricaWFMT Student Delegate for Africa
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