Introduction

Music therapy is at an exhilarating stage in its evolution both as a profession and an academic discipline. Gone are the days of it being an ad hoc pursuit for the dedicated few. In many parts of the world music therapy is now regarded as a serious clinical profession practised by well-trained and highly motivated practitioners working within a variety of approaches and agreed standards of ethical practice. This commitment to the profession and enthusiasm for the work were demonstrated at a turn-of-the-century conference organised by the British Society for Music Therapy (BSMT) and the Association of Professional Music Therapists (APMT). One of the highlights of this two-day event was a presentation by a group of newly qualified therapists from different training courses. These talented young clinicians outlined their hopes for the future, articulated within a professional approach that celebrated unity and diversity. Similar advances are occurring world-wide.