The healing power of music

The healing power of music 

Inspired by the care his wife received in the Northern Health Palliative Care Unit, Neville Scarlett made a powerful decision that would one day help kickstart Northern Health’s Music Therapy program.

Julius Quiring, Nurse Unit Manager, Palliative Care, has long believed music therapy could provide significant benefits for patients. So, when he began exploring the possibility of introducing a music therapist to the hospital, he was thrilled when the Northern Health Foundation came forward with Neville’s generous gift in his Will.

Julius believes music therapy is much more than entertainment. It complements the unit’s holistic approach to care. “Music can become a starting point for deeper conversations,” he explains. “By talking about songs, memories and experiences, patients may begin discussing their lives, fears and concerns. The music therapist can identify potential ‘red flags’ and bring these back to the broader clinical team, helping them better understand and support the patient.”  

Like Julius, Northern Health’s Senior Music Therapist, Dr Lucy Forrest, believes music can play a powerful role in care – particularly as a way to support rest and healing. Working in the Palliative Care Unit two days a week, Dr Forrest uses live music to create therapeutic soundscapes and individually tailored programs that enrich the experience and promote rest for patients, families and staff.

“Rest plays a key role in healing and emotional wellbeing. Yet hospitals are often bustling and noisy, which can make patients and families feel stressed or overwhelmed.” Dr Forrest explains. She believes music therapy offers a unique and inclusive way to create a positive, calming and relaxing environment within the hospital.

“When we hear music, it can switch our brain from fight-flight, problem-solving mode into relaxation-mode, and help promote feelings of calm, safety and wellbeing, all of which can help support good rest.” The positive feedback and results of the program have been so encouraging that Northern Health will fund music therapy on an ongoing basis from September 2026.

Initially, the service was concentrated in palliative care. Now, we have our sights set on broadening access across Northern Health to other areas such as paediatrics and oncology. It’s incredible to think that a selfless decision made by one generous man all those years ago has led to the creation of this wonderful service.

And now, with the continued generosity of our community, we can bring the power of music to even more patients and families who need it.