Mid-Atlantic Regional Newsletter

"Volunteering my time playing music is an uplifting experience. Knowing that I am creating a relaxing ambiance makes my service fulfilling."
- David Robbins (far right)

MTSA Community Outreach
The 2006-2007 school year has been a time of intense activity for Duquesne University's Music Therapy Student Association (MTSA). As a result of the dedication of our members, we have been able to participate in a wide variety of community services, advocacy activities, fundraising, and professional development sessions. Our hard work has been rewarded by recognition within the Duquesne community, the city of Pittsburgh, and the Mid Atlantic region.

One of the cornerstones of the music therapy program at Duquesne is community outreach. Our organization has participated in a number of service projects in order to aid those in need. As in past years, music therapy students have lightened the atmosphere at the Magee Womens' Hospital with their music.

We have also been nvolved with providing live music in the lobby of the Allegheny County Jail. Our organization participated in Keep It Clean South Side, a monthly program that assigns student groups sections of the South Side area to beautify. Our members have been active at the Saint Barnabas Nursing Home, where we provide music and games. Music therapy students also give of themselves when leading community drum circles. Duquesne students have donated their time at the regional level as well, volunteering both at MAR Passages and this year's regional conference.

In the coming months, MTSA members will participate in Spring Clean-Up. This annual service program helps to maintain various community areas and outreach facilities.

Drum Facilitation Workshops and Community Drum Circles
As a professional organization, the Music Therapy Student Association works to supplement the education provided by our university. In order to do so, our members have taken part in a number of seminars and instructional workshops. We are thrilled to be working with Janelle Burdell in drum circle facilitation workshops and community drum circles.

• Ms. Burdell is both a professional percussionist and a supporter of drumming as a therapeutic tool. She developed “Rhythm Games,”a non-profit program that focuses on the use of drumming to improve conflict resolution skills and empower women and children.
• Our organization also hosted presentations of case studies from music therapy students, interns, and professionals. Members received HIPAA training, information on infection control, training on “HeartMath” technology, information on the use and maintenance of Orff instruments, and a comprehensive look at legislation in special education.

Advocacy
Duquesne's music therapy program is highly involved in advocacy for our field. On a campus level, students provide information about music therapy at Autumn Fest during homecoming weekend. Our organization and actions have been featured in the Duquesne Duke and The Duquesne University Times. While volunteering in the community, music therapy members make sure to share their passion for the field with all those who show interest.

WDUQ
Sister Donna Marie Beck, music therapy department chair, granted an interview to WDUQ 90.5 FM, Pittsburgh's first public radio station. Along with Janelle Burdell, Sister Donna discussed the impact of community drum circles. To listen to this interview, visit the Duquesne University Mary Pappert School of Music website at www.music.duq.edu.

Mr. Music Man!
Our major project for the spring semester has been the annual production of the male pageant known as Mr. Music Man.While primarily acting as a fundraiser for the music therapy club, this event also serves as an opportunity to educate the audience about our field. Representatives from each of the music departments compete in such categories as talent, interview, and apparel. Based on the contestants' performances, faculty judges will award the title of Mr. Music Man. The pageant is now in its fifth year of existence and has established a reputation as a night of fun and laughter for students of any major. This event, along with our tote bag fundraiser, allows for high attendance rates at national and regional music therapy conferences.