An Investigation into the Use of Irish Traditional Music in Northern Irish Music Therapy Practice

The provision of mental health and therapeutic services is deemed a vital response to the vast traumatisation of the largely bicultural community of Northern Ireland resulting from the “Troubles” conflict. Music therapy research places importance on understanding, interacting, and valuing the culture of a client. Irish traditional music is often regarded as an integral part of the Irish self-identity in Catholic/Irish identifying members of Northern Irish society; accordingly, investigation into its use in Northern Irish music therapy is necessary. Following ethical approval, semi-structured interviews were conducted with Northern Irish music therapists (n = 3), and a thematic analysis was undertaken. Three main themes were identified: (1) the music therapist’s musical identity, (2) client centred practice, and (3) Northern Ireland as a workplace. The findings demonstrate cross-cultural music therapy in Northern Ireland and support the use of cultural music in Northern Irish music therapy practice.