Local Bands Rock On To Benefit Hospital's Music Therapy Program

MOUNT KISCO, N.Y. -- For patients who participate in Northern Westchester Hospital's Music Therapy Program, the road to recovery may begin with something as simple as a few strums of the guitar.

Westchester residents can bring their dancing shoes to support Northern Westchester Hospital's Music Therapy Program.
Photo Credit: *Northern Westchester Hospital*

John Haffey

Content Partner: Northern Westchester Hospital

The Music Therapy Program was brought back to NWH in 2014 as a result of the generous support of Cathy and Paul Shaffer and other members of the community. Since then, the program has brought healing and comfort to countless Westchester residents. To help ensure the beat goes on, the hospital will hold its third Moms and Dads Rock for Music Therapy on Saturday, July 22 at 7 p.m. at the Rippowan Cisqua School Sky Auditorium in Bedford.

“Music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music, which helps individuals achieve their personal health goals and is part of NWH’s Integrative Medicine Program," said Whitney Wasserman, development manager, Northern Westchester Hospital Foundation. Run by a masters-prepared, board certified music therapist, Ariel Weissberger, and NWH holistic nurse Toni Russo, RN, music therapy offers a variety of services to those recuperating at NWH.

“Ariel and Toni provide group music therapy to patients on the Transitional Care (rehab) and Behavioral Health units, and individual therapy to inpatients referred by the nursing staff," said Wasserman. "They speak with patients, sing songs and involve patients in therapeutic drumming. Music therapy helps alleviate pain, decrease anxiety and promotes positive coping.”

Music therapy services are common at behavioral health facilities; however, it is unique for a community hospital to offer a comprehensive weekly program. Thanks to the community’s charitable support, music therapy at NWH is offered free of charge to a variety of inpatients.

To ensure the program will continue, three local bands will perform at the upcoming Moms and Dads Rock for Music Therapy Concert, including The Shaves, ONL and Lawless. Sets will range from rock and roll to blues and jazz. At the end of the concert, the bands will collaborate and perform several special tribute songs.

“NWH offers an award winning Music Therapy Program, which enhances a patient’s journey to wellness,” said Wasserman. “Music therapy is part of the Hospital’s holistic approach to care, where we promote healing the mind, body and spirit.”

Moms and Dads Rock for Music Therapy will take place on July 22 at 7 p.m. at Rippowam Cisqua School Sky Auditorium in Bedford. Tickets are $100 per person, which includes adult beverages. To register, click here.