Developing concepts for a general theory of music therapy. Music as representation, replica, semi-representation, symbol, metaphor, semi-symbol, iso-morphé, and analogy.

Journal/Book: 4th European Music Therapy Conference. 1998; Leuwen, Belgium.

Abstract: A contribution to the development of concepts for a general theory of music therapy.

Note: LOBs notes (continued) from p. 7 The semi-symbolic system is charactereized as "inner directed....and connected to the formal opposites in the representation itself." This is very clear and useful for the understanding of some of the experiences of and expressions in music. Again, I think we have to distinguish active MT/improvisation - where it is often (but not always) true that "The aesthetic expression of the client's self in music shows us the form of Self, reflected in aesthetic from of music." The music of the client can also reveal social/interpersonal potentials and deficits ( a slightly different category). However, in receptive MT the situation is more complicated: The client's self may appear at the semi-symbolic level, when the cl. project his psycho-dynamic into the dynamic forms of the composed music. This is the case i.e. with metaphorical phantasies or mythic journeys in GIM. But the client often projects herself into sections or aspects of the music, thus creating meaning in the listening experience at the symbolic level, giving metaphoric or symbolic qualities to melodies, timbres etc., referring to a personal context outside the musical representation. And I think we must include a third level (not semiological, but phenomenlogical): a vegetative level, where it is either a matter of bodily representations or simple (psycho-)physical stimulation, arousing vitality affects.

Keyword(s): Music therapy theory. Interpretation. Symbol. metaphor

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