Music Therapy Huan Wang

When I was in elementary school, it seemed like everyone was learning how to play a musical instrument. My mother insisted that I jump on the bandwagon. I considered my options, and my interest was piqued by the idea of learning how to play the violin. Although I possessed a natural talent for playing in the beginning, I never became more than a mediocre violinist. The instrument became an expensive toy that I played for relaxation. I let the notes flow naturally, and the harmony was my home remedy for stress relief. Over time, I even learned how to play songs by ear.

My experience at Johns Hopkins Hospital taught me how to use my violin not only as a source of entertainment, but also as a tool. During the summer before my senior year, I volunteered at the hospital and worked with young patients. When the child life specialist, Marichi, discovered that I played the violin, she suggested that I spend my Wednesday afternoons playing music for the children. I came by that Wednesday, and Marichi introduced me to the children in the playroom. Trying my best to please the children, I took requests. These children asked for a variety of songs ranging from TV tunes like the Spongebob SquarePants theme song to Sunday School music. After...