September 5, 2009 - Remembering Barry Bernstein

"Bongo" Barry Bernstein, 55, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Wednesday, August 26, 2009. He graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Music Therapy. While a music therapy consultant for the Blue Valley School District he performed at libraries and schools around the region. Barry will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations on behalf of Barry to the Barry Bernstein Education Fund, c/o Healthy Sounds, P.O. Box 40304, Overland Park, KS 66204.

Barry, you were my first introduction to drumming that was accessible to "non-percussionists" at a music therapy conference. I have used the techniques I learned in that course you taught for all 15 years Ive been in practice as a music therapist and will continue to do so. Thank you for all that you have done for the profession. You have made the world a better place.

This week's show is dedicated to Barry Bernstein and will feature some of the percussion techniques I learned from him.

The Music Therapy Show will air on Saturday, September 5, 5:00 EDT/4:00
CDT/3:00 MDT/2:00 PDT at www.blogtalkradio.com/jharrismtbc. The call in number is
646-652-2850. Please share your memories of Barry and your favorite percussion techniques.

August 29, 2009 - No show today

I'm trying to squeeze the last bit of relaxation out of the summer, so I'm taking the day off today. I would love to hear from you about what you like and what topics you would like to hear about.

Enjoy one of the archived shows this weekend.

August 22, 2009 - Secondary Trauma

Secondary trauma or Vicarious Trauma can occur when you see or hear a traumatic event. The trauma does not affect you directly, but you feel its effects. This is NOT a sign of weakness--it is normal to be affected by graphic descriptions of victimization or suffering when you really care about others. People who work directly with trauma can also experience secondary trauma. Nurses, physicians, emergency workers, therapists are all at risk for secondary trauma.

This week, Kimberly Sena Moore will return to talk about secondary trauma and how to take care of yourself.


I'd love to know what you think about this topic or about the show. Please leave a comment and let me know!

August 15, 2009 - No Show

I am hosting the Board of Directors for the Southwestern Region of the American Music Therapy Association as President this Saturday. Check in next week, when Kimberly Sena Moore returns as my guest to talk about secondary trauma and self care.

August 8, 2009 -- Chip Music

Scott F is my guest today to talk about 8-bit, or chip, music. I am very excited to learn about this method of music-making and composing. Scott sent over a sample of his work that I am going to play so you can hear what this type of music sounds like.

Listen here.

What do you think of chip music? Leave a comment and let me know!

August 1, 2009 - No Show again

Sorry. I'm just not feeling up to it today. But next week I have a very interesting guest. Scott F will be my guest to talk about Chip Music-music made using 8-bit devices. Please listen to an archived show this week and I'll talk to you live next week.

Thanks for listening!