Music therapy in the United States at the end of the 18th century. Although the United States began using it in the late 18th century, there has been evidence of music being used for healing since ancient times. This evidence comes in the form of historical writings from ancient civilizations such as Egypt, China, and India. The ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome also have evidence of the use of music for healing. Music therapy today is very different from how it was originally used in ancient times. Music therapy is also evident in biblical scriptures. Although music therapy is not widely known, it can be very useful and beneficial for people of different ages and those with health problems. There may be negative effects, but research is being done to help a wider range of people and, for the most part, music therapy is a wonderful thing. (Map 9) In the 1950s, a professional organization was established by a collaboration of music therapists who worked with veterans and the mentally retarded. They have also worked with people who are hearing or visually impaired and people with psychiatric disabilities. The organization they created was called NAMT. NAMT stands for National Association for Music Therapy. Then, in 1998, NAMT joined with another music therapy organization. They joined the American Association for Music Therapy and created the American Music Therapy Association. (Map 9) The overall mission of music therapy is to increase and advance public awareness of music therapy and its benefits. Promoting access to quality music therapy services is also part of the mission of music therapy. Music therapy can be used for many different purposes. Music therapy can be designed to promote well-being, manage stress and relieve pain. It can also be designed to express feelings, ...... middle of paper ...... musical vocabulary of their own. (Card 14) Music therapy is not, however, reserved for group or individual sessions. Music can also be used in the workplace as a calming therapy. Music played in the workplace can have various benefits. In undemanding or repetitive tasks, this can improve overall productivity. Music played in physically challenging jobs can improve employee performance. Music used in the workplace as calming therapy can also improve morale. Morale is the confidence, enthusiasm, and discipline of a person or group at a given time. Another benefit of music in a work environment is that employees are more likely to collaborate with and support each other. (Card 15) Music therapy works not only on adults in the workplace, but also on premature babies, infants and children..