What the study found
The essay finds both links and tensions between Western music therapy and the Senegalese Ndëpp healing ritual. It notes shared use of rhythm, song, and ritual, but also says the two approaches differ fundamentally in how they understand healing and the person.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors suggest these differences show the limits of Western categories when applied across cultures. They conclude that culturally sensitive music therapy, local traditions, and reflection on the therapist's own position can support more authentic, equitable, and inclusive practice.
What the researchers tested
The author drew on fieldwork in Senegal and Europe and on an interdisciplinary review of literature from music therapy, psychiatry, sociology, and ethnology. The essay compares Western music therapy with the Ndëpp healing ritual to ask how bridges might be built across cultural frameworks.
What worked and what didn't
The comparison found parallels in rhythm, song, and ritual. It also found a major mismatch: Western music therapy is described as mainly focused on the individual, while Ndëpp is rooted in community and spirituality.
What to keep in mind
This is an essay based on the author's fieldwork and a literature review, not a controlled test. The abstract does not describe quantitative results or detailed limitations beyond noting the limits of Western categories across cultures.
Key points
- The essay compares Western music therapy with the Senegalese Ndëpp healing ritual.
- It identifies shared use of rhythm, song, and ritual.
- It says Western music therapy is mainly individual-focused, while Ndëpp is community- and spirituality-based.
- The author argues that Western categories have limits when used cross-culturally.
- The authors recommend culturally sensitive practice and engagement with local traditions.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Western music therapy and Ndëpp share some techniques but differ deeply
- Authors:
- Cathy Schmartz
- Institutions:
- Rolls-Royce (Germany)
- Publication date:
- 2026-03-03
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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