The Institute for Music and Neurologic Function hosted a symposium on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at the Times Center in New York City to advance knowledge of music based interventions in senior health care . The IMNF'sgroundbreaking and internationally recognized research, education, and training programs use music therapy to assist the awakening and healing of individuals with a wide range of neurological conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimers disease, and Parkinsons disease.

From its inception, the IMNF has brought together neuroscientists, clinicians and innovators to promote greater understanding of music-based interventions in healthcare and wellness. This symposium delved into current innovations and research in music therapy, neuroscience, and senior healthcare and will become an annual offering of the IMNF going forward.

The evening awards ceremony presented the Music Has Power award to two distinguished figures in the field of music and brain health. Edward Large, a leader in neuroscience, and InnerWave Chief Creative Officer Greg Barnhill, also an accomplished composer and musician, were recognized for their significant contributions to the field of music and brain health.

Edward Large is a leader in neuroscience and focuses on how the brain processes rhythm and music. His research helps explain how rhythm-based music therapy benefits those with neurological conditions like Parkinsons and stroke. Greg Barnhill’s work spans decades. Greg brought his unique blend of music that has touched the hearts of many around the world. Greg later visited the Veterans Music Therapy program at Wartburg and performed with the veterans. 

“Music has long been one of the world’s most powerful healing tools. With frequencies and resonance, we’re tapping into something even more profound” said Barnhill. Sponsors and exhibitors included: Gibson Gives, Leading Age, InnerWave, CaringKind NY, Sage Stream, Wartburg, Spiritune, SingFit, Oscillo-Biosciences, and MedRythyms. InnerWave President and CEO Todd Kunze discussed how music-based technologies are reshaping therapeutic care for older adults. “We are pushing the boundaries of music’s potential, unlocking new avenues for vibrant, healthier aging,” Kunze shared.

"It was an honor to present Spiritune's mission and impact at this year's Music Has Power symposium and awards, and showcase the innovative way we are approaching mental health through the intersection of music, science and technology. IMNF has a rich history of understanding and advancing music’s therapeutic potential, which made presenting here deeply meaningful for us at Spiritune, and it’s inspiring to contribute to a legacy that has profoundly shaped the dialogue around music and health," said Jamie Pabst, Founder & CEO, Spiritune. 

IMNF has received support from a variety of sources, including individuals, corporations, and foundations that recognize the value of music therapy and neurological research. Some of the well-known supporters and sponsors over the years have included moby, Mickey Hart, The ASCAP Foundation, The Grammy Foundation and Musicians On Call.

The institute continues to grow in prominence as music therapy gains recognition as an effective treatment for neurological conditions. “The Music Has Power Symposium was such a diverse line-up of panelists with topics including the applications of music research in pedagogy and practice, music and senior wellness, and the research successes in this country of applied technology using music as an intervention.” Said David J. Gentner, Ed.D., Wartburg President & CEO Dr, Concetta Tomaino, Executive director of IMNF said, “ With the growing interest in music and its effect on brain health, the IMNF is committed to providing annual symposia, workshops and online courses that expand public knowledge of best practices in music and senior health and wellness.

For more information on this important topic and the symposium, please reach out to Rose Cappa Rotunno at 914-513-5179.