Abstract:
In this study symbolic play is being studied in the context of music therapy with a specific client. The aim of this study is to explore the musical nature of symbolic play as well as the role that it plays in the therapeutic relationship with the specific client. The client is a six-year-old Sotho boy with Down’s Syndrome. The study examines literature on the possible definitions of music, the human being as a musical being as well as man’s communicative musical abilities. It also explores music therapy, play as well as play in the context of music therapy. The primary data source is a video extract that was selected from a video recording of music therapy sessions with the specific client in 2002. This extract was shown to two registered music therapists and a play therapist. Two questions that are related to the research questions were asked and the information of the interviews was used to create two themes. The discussion of these themes was used to answer the research questions.
