December 16, 2002.

By Amanda Kimbrough, Music Therapy Student, Mississippi University for Women. (pinkladyfrog@yahoo.com):

As I read the column "New Sounds of Culture," I found it interesting to see the effects that even the jingling of keys could have on certain people. As music therapists (or even as psychology majors) we have to pay close attention to the cultural background and history of our clients. I know that personally I have not ever thought about the consequences of such as small action as shifting keys or what instruments might trigger such memories.

As an American I can appreciate and understand that certain songs provoke certain feelings and memories such as pride and patriotism. Yet I do not often realize how those song and sound really do affect the outcome of a music therapy session. Knowing a client's background aids in choosing interments and techniques to us in each session, and can aid in a successful out come.

I do agree with Schapira, that we as therapists should pay closer attention to our actions and choices. This article reminded me to guard my actions and words, because I can never be sure how it is going to affect someone around me, whether directly or inadvertently.