Developments in the MAP: A method for describing and analyzing music therapy sessions

The Music Therapy Analyzing Partitura (MAP) is a method for describing and analyzing music therapy sessions. The aims of this study were to examine whether music therapists (MTs) are able to use the MAP and what, if any, further improvements and developments need to be made. Qualitative research methods were used: five MTs were asked to use the MAP to describe and analyze two music therapy sessions with clients of their choice. Subsequently, the MTs participated in a focus group. The verbatim transcripts from the focus group were then analyzed thematically. The analysis showed that the MTs were able to implement the MAP and that they found it to be a useful clinical and research tool. The MTs discussed the advantages and disadvantages of the MAP, the necessary requirements for creating a MAP, and made suggestions regarding the MAP's future development. Additionally, the work of three other MTs who used the MAP as part of their research projects is also described. It is of special interest to note how these researchers adapted the MAP to suit their particular research requirements. Suggestions for future developments of the MAP as well as recommendations for potential users are discussed.