The idea of using music to heal has been around since the beginning of time. But according to the American Music Therapy Association it wasn't until after World War I and II did people start to really acknowledge its benefits.

During those times musicians would play for the veterans in the hospitals.  Doctors began to notice the positive effects the music had on their patients and began hiring musicians to come and play for the veterans on a regular basis.  From there on the demand started to grow and in 1944 Michigan State University created the first music therapy degree program.

 
For more information on the Music Therapy Association visit www.musictherapy.org