Abstract
Clinicians in the Caribbean frequently use music in
various forms to work with children. Young people are
familiar with these activities as they are an integral part
of the elementary school curriculum, religious programs
and community celebrations. The creation, performance
and appreciation of music provide a comfort zone which
is ideal for involvement in a therapeutic relationship.
This is an overview of the use of music with children
and adolescents. It looks at different types of musical
events and interaction which exists in the Caribbean,
in particular within the Jamaican culture. It provides
some examples of music in ceremonial rituals and used
therapeutically with young people in the region,
The text provides a framework for understanding the
importance of music in the Caribbean community, and
examines how music is used for healing and transformation
in the lives of children and adolescents in the
indigenous population.