UofL holding its first-ever instrument donation drive for music therapy program

The University of Louisville Music Therapy Program in the School of Music is seeking donations of musical instruments for the program that educates and trains board-certified music therapists who augment treatment plans in education and physical and mental health.

“Our Music Therapy Clinic is seeking donations of new or used instruments for immediate therapeutic and educational use,” said Chris Millett, UofL music therapy clinical coordinator. “We would love to give your previously loved instrument a new home and purpose.”

In this first-ever instrument donation drive, the program will accept instruments on three days during the first week of October:

• Friday, Oct. 1, noon to 4 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 2, noon to 2 p.m.
• Friday, Oct. 8, noon to 4 p.m.

The donation site is the music therapy van parked in front of the UofL School of Music Building, 105 W. Brandeis Ave. Instrument drop-off or pick-up also can be arranged outside of the scheduled times by calling 502.852.2122 or 502.509.2178 or by emailing uoflmtc@louisville.edu.

Millett said the drive is seeking virtually any type of instrument but “rock band” instruments and equipment such as guitars and amplifiers are especially useful.

“Stringed, woodwind and brass instruments of all types are welcomed, as are percussion instruments,” he said. ““While smaller instruments are usually used in music therapy, larger instruments, such as drum sets, and other music equipment also are encouraged.”

He also said that donors should not be concerned if the condition of the instrument is less than pristine.

“Don’t worry if your saxophone has a dent in its bell or if your tambourine is missing a few of its jingles,” Millett said. “The School of Music has trained faculty and staff who can restore virtually all instruments so they can be fully used in the Music Therapy Clinic.”

UofL’s music therapy program was established in 2000 and was the first of its kind in Kentucky. Approved by the American Music Therapy Association, the program prepares students to practice in a variety of clinical settings and participate in research, program development, leadership and advocacy opportunities.

Music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions by a credentialed music provider to accomplish individual goals within a therapeutic setting. Music therapy can be utilized in a variety of health care and educational areas to promote wellness, manage stress, alleviate pain, express feelings, enhance memory, improve communications, promote physical rehabilitation and more.