Singing to be available on the NHS?

In news that is likely to get middle England whipped into a right old froth, health experts have said singing is so good for the body and soul that it should be available on prescription.

An American explains: “An active engagement with music can be good for an older person’s overall physical and mental health. I will particularly focus on the positive effects of singing on the mind and the immune system, and how music and art can have positive influences on the course of illness with aging.”

That particular American was Professor Gene Cohen from the Centre of Aging, Health and Humanities at George Washington University. He’ll be speaking at a two-day conference on 9 and 10 September in Folkestone entitled ‘Music and Health: Current Developments in Research and Practice’, organised by Canterbury Christ Church University.

The rest of the world’s leading authorities on music and health are to present their findings too.

Professor Stephen Clift, Head of the Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts and Health, said: “This conference aims to encourage the NHS to recognise the power of music as a crucial form of treatment and health promotion. We are delighted to welcome a wealth of experts from across the globe who will provide groundbreaking insights into the enormous value of music and singing on health and well being.”

Richard Parish from Public Health, said: “The evidence shows that the contribution of arts and health is grossly underestimated by many healthcare professionals. The Royal Society for Public Health encourages all organisations involved in healthcare to invest in these evidence-based interventions. This conference will hopefully raise awareness about the health outcomes possible and, in particular, the contribution singing makes to health improvement.”

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