„Song of Life – Path to Practice“

„Song of Life – Path to Practice“ is a training program in biographical music therapy using a designated and sensitively adapted song.  

This intervention was adapted from „Song of Kin“ (Joan Loewy, USA), originally developed for premature infants, to adult patients in palliative care. Its effectiveness was scientifically validated in the „Song of Life“ study (lead investigator: Prof. Marco Warth, 2018–2020). 

A song that has played an important role in the patient’s life—and remains meaningful—is identified. The therapist tailors it to reflect the patient’s themes and condition before singing it — often slowing it down and softening it to resemble a lullaby. Through this process, patients not only experience relaxation but also a deeper connection with themselves and a sense of ego integrity — an essential aspect, particularly in palliative care.  

Sung-Eun Lee, a certified music therapist (DMtG), conducted the study as a music therapist at the University Medical Center Mainz and developed this training program to make it practically applicable. The training provides hands-on experience, reflection on the method, and discussions on realistic limitations and further possibilities for application. 

The Sonnenblau Foundation has supported both the study and the development of this training. 

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