RU to offer 7th Annual Music Therapy Symposium

The power of music as a healing force will be the focus of Radford University's Seventh Annual Music Therapy Symposium on campus Thursday through Saturday, April 18-20.

An opportunity for students in the university's music therapy program to further their learning, this year's symposium will focus on the clinical treatment of people with disabilities. The three-day event will bring in music therapy experts from the University of Dayton to work with RU students and share their professional perspectives.

Hosting the RU Music Therapy Symposium is a matter of pride to the music therapy program, said Jim Borling, head of the program and a professor in the Department of Music. Guest lecturers frequently remark on the symposium's tremendous value to students and educators alike, he said.

"One of the many shining aspects of Radford is the support it gives to provide resources for our symposium," Borling said. "Our guests always talk about how Radford has its priorities in order."

Events like the RU Music Therapy Symposium not only deepen students' academic experience, they unite music therapists and strengthen the field. "We all know each other very well," Borling said. "We're a close-knit community."

This year's event is made possible by the Club Programming Committee, which grants funds through an application process to RU-recognized clubs and organizations. The committee comprises students, faculty and staff.

Radford is one of only a few U.S. universities offering a comprehensive music therapy program with both a Bachelor of Music degree with a concentration in music therapy and a Master of Science in Music degree with a concentration in music therapy.

The Seventh Annual Music Therapy Symposium will take place in 149 Porterfield Hall with events throughout each of the three days. All members of the Radford community interested in music therapy may attend.

Learn more about Radford University at www.radford.edu.