This information is for reference only. These classifications are no longer valid and were replaced 7/1/2020.
- Music Therapist I
- What will I be doing?
- Do I qualify?
- Can I be successful?
- Benefits
- How do I apply?
This is professional music therapy work involving the instruction and supervision of patients and aides in musical activities as a part of a therapeutic program.
An employee in this class supervises patients in a variety of musical activities as a part of the treatment program in a hospital for persons with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities. Work involves the responsibility for interpretation of the needs of patients in the form of music treatment and activity, taking into consideration the severity, duration and nature of the illness/disability, and other pertinent information. Treatment may be given to patients individually or in groups and is based upon medical prescription. Employees supervise the work of a small number of subordinates and volunteers in the performance of related activities. Judgment is exercised in planning and supervising various individual and group projects as a part of the music therapy program but general supervision is received from a superior who checks the work for conformance with broad program objectives.
Works with small groups and with individual patients, supervising them in a program of musical activities adapted to their needs, interests, abilities, and medical history.
Stimulates and supervises the active participation of patients in choral and instrumental groups and related music activities.
Supervises and trains activity aides and volunteers in work relating to music therapy.
Initiates and conducts special music therapy projects designed to meet the needs of various wards.
Keeps clinical notes and records, and writes reports of patients' reactions, indicating the effectiveness of various activities.
Reports to the medical staff all pertinent information observed in the course of administering musical therapy.
Assembles all materials and equipment necessary for administering prescribed treatment.
Performs related work as assigned.
(The following minimum qualifications will determine merit system eligibility. Allowable experience and education substitutions are provided in italics below the corresponding minimum qualification statement; no other substitutions will be permitted. These minimum qualifications may also be used to evaluate applicants for Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System positions not requiring selection from merit registers.)
Graduation from a recognized school of music, with specialization in music therapy or from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in the field of music therapy.
OR
Graduation from a recognized school of music, or from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in music; and two years full-time paid professional employment in music therapy activities (other than purely recreational) in a mental health facility, including the execution of individual therapy programs based upon psychiatric analysis and medical prescription.
(A year of full-time paid professional experience in group music instruction and related activities in a non-hospital setting may be substituted for one of the stated two years of work in a mental health facility.)
OR
Two or more years of full-time paid professional employment as an Activity Therapist (or Activity Instructor) in the music therapy program of the Missouri Division of Mental Health.
Please note that documentation that supports your eligibility (i.e. transcripts, employment records, etc.) may be required at any time during the application and hiring process. If you do not possess the minimum qualifications, please consider one of many other employment opportunities with the State of Missouri.
Do you possess the key skills which are considered essential for successful employment in this classification?
Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of music education including both individual and group techniques.
Knowledge of music theory and instrumentation.
Working knowledge of the principles and practices of music therapy as applied to individual and group activities in a mental hospital.
Some knowledge of mental health and the general theory and practice of rehabilitation of persons with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities.
Ability to play and give instruction in two or more musical instruments, including piano.
Ability to teach music and music appreciation, and to plan and conduct group singing, rhythm bands, impromptu concerts, and planned programs of recorded music.
Ability to plan and administer effective music therapy in accordance with a physician's prescription.
Ability to establish and maintain cooperative relations with employees and patients.
The following link will provide you with general information about State of Missouri employee benefits.
View benefits