I graduated in 2005 with my Masters in Music, and in 2009 with my Doctorate. I was working full time when I went back to school and chose to continue working while pursuing my Masters, so I could implement what I was learning in my clinical practice. I chose U of T for my advanced degrees due to the prestige of the University, and the reputation of the faculty who I knew would support me on my journey. The research I carried out as part of my doctoral thesis explored an area of music therapy that had not yet been studied in any detail at that time. I personally learned so much from that study and have been fortunate to share the results and the implications for practice with many others around the world. My work is cited often, and the University of Toronto and I am recognized for my expertise in the area of relationship completion through music therapy in palliative care. Since graduating I have continued to research a number of varied areas in music and health including singing for health and wellness, rhythmic sensory stimulation and Alzheimer’s disease, and electronic music technologies in music therapy etc. A few of these studies have been with my former doctoral supervisor Dr. Lee Bartel. When I was hired to work as a part time professor at the University of Toronto, in the Faculty of Music I felt so much pride, and that things had come full circle. I was so excited and honoured to be given this role. I deeply love teaching and mentoring students; and sharing my clinical work and research in the classroom each week. I enjoy inspiring the next generation of music and health researchers, music therapists and music educators. Thank you U of T for making my dreams come true!
- Amy Clements-Cortes (PhD 2009, MMus 2005)