Discussion of overarching themes
This study is limited by a small, context-based
sample, and focuses only on a single music therapy
session. The brevity of interviews may also have
limited the range of data captured. Secondary
assessment tools, particularly the FACES tool,
may have been limited in their ability to capture
nuances of change. Although measures were taken
to minimise the risk of bias, it cannot be ruled out
in this practitioner-led evaluation.
1. Affirming life (categories 4 and 5) Cancer can
be overwhelming, leading to feelings of distress,
powerlessness and depression (Brennan 2004).
In contrast, music therapy appeared to offer lifeaffirming
experiences: ‘It just puts things back in
perspective... brings you back in line with reality...
takes you beyond all this’ (Tom, category 4).
‘I enjoyed it… it was fun’ (Josie, category 5).
This resonates with the results from a grounded
theory study by music therapist Clare O’Callaghan,
which indicate that music therapy can promote
quality experiences that may be transformative for
cancer patients (O’Callaghan 2001).
The findings also resonate with other
literature that conceptualises music therapy
as a life-affirming, celebratory activity where
participants can achieve new perspectives in the
face of adversity (Ansdell 1995, Aldridge 1996).
Furthermore, musical participation can place
us in the present moment, affirming vitality
and activating positive coping mechanisms
(Csikszentmihalyi 1997, Ruud 2010).
2. Meaning and identity (categories 2 and 3) Cancer
presents a severe threat to personal identity and
security, often eliciting strong emotional responses.
These emotions are an important response to cancer
and a means of driving change and reconstructing
meaning (Brennan 2004). Here, identity was explored
and affirmed through the selection of personally
meaningful and cathartic musical experiences. This
enabled difficult, complex feelings to be shared and
expressed: ‘It was just so releasing... I just let the
tears flow’ (Mike, category 3).
Participants also affirmed their identity through
their song choices and connections with family
members: ‘I chose the songs and they played’ (Lucy,
category 2).
3. Addressing isolation (categories 1 and 6) Isolation
is common among cancer patients and often underreported
(Brennan 2004). Music therapy seemed to
provide relief: ‘If someone’s there singing to you...
there’s someone else there’ (Patrick, category 1).