By Alexis Rosenwald
Michael is a bright and talented 11 year old boy with a rare diagnosis of Von Willbrand’s Disease. Through many years of hospitalizations and surgeries, Michael has outlived his life expectancy of one week or less and continues to live every day to its fullest. Due to his medical conditions, he is unable to speak, walk without assistance, and is partially blind. However, I quickly learned that none of these challenges could stop Michael from learning to play the piano.
Upon entering Michael’s home for the first time, I saw a quiet boy sitting slouched with his head down, patiently waiting for his appointment. I was told by his mother that he loves listening to Christian and Disney music and wants to learn to play the piano. Michael greeted me with a warm smile, bright eyes, and lifted his head to see who I was. Once he saw I had guitar on my back and a bag of instruments, he knew it was time for fun! I introduced Michael to several different instruments, all of which he played with both rhythm and joy.
After several visits of becoming acquainted with Michael’s musical taste and learning/motoric abilities, I asked Michael which song he would like to learn on the piano. Although he is unable to communicate verbally, Michael’s non-verbal communication skills are strong and effective. i.e. pointing with one finger, nodding his head, and utilizing his iPad. Michael requested to learn “Jesus Loves Me”. Through repetition, structure, and positive reinforcement, Michael was able to memorize the melody to this song, even without visual assistance. He gained confidence after playing it for every family member, therapist, and guest he knew. Soon enough, he was given an opportunity to play for his Church.
During the day of his big performance, I sat next to a completely different boy than I met the first time. He was sitting upright, looking at the audience, and had his finger in position to play “Jesus Loves Me” for his family and friends to enjoy. Not only did his performance leave the audience in tears, they encouraged an encore! Michael played the encore with total passion, took a bow, and left the alter with a huge smile. After the concert, Michael watched his video recording not once, but twice, in awe of his performance and accomplishment. Below is a picture of Michael, and his Music Therapist after his performance.
Over the course of 6 months, I have been Michael’s Music Therapist and have seen incredible growth in his physical, social, emotional, and cognitive abilities. Music therapy is not only an outlet for Michael’s self-expression, but it also boosts his self-esteem, improves his fine and gross motor skills, and provides a safe and non-threatening environment for learning.