The theoretical basis for the effectiveness of Therapeutic Music Training to address cognitive rehabilitation goals and improved self-concept following an acquired brain injury

Acquired brain injury (ABI) is a leading cause of disability worldwide. The most common outcome of ABI is cognitive impairment and has significant impact on the life of the individual and their caregivers. Cognitive impairment can impede participation in Activities of Daily Living and the return to work, school, or leisure activities. Research and the development of effective cognitive rehabilitation interventions is needed. Literature regarding the cognitive neural networks engaged during music perception or creation, plus the literature discussing enhancement of a range of non-music specific cognitive abilities of musicians support the idea of music-based interventions for cognitive rehabilitation. This paper discusses the theorical bases for the effectiveness of Therapeutic Music Training, a music-based cognitive rehabilitation intervention that uses learning to play the piano to address cognitive goals following an ABI. Individuals with cognitive impairment experience a higher level of depression and anxiety than the general public. A loss of sense-of-self following ABI is a major contributor to depression and anxiety. A secondary benefit of TMT is the improved self-concept and self-esteem and reduced depression as a result of learning to play an instrument.