Electro Music with Alaryngeal Voices: a pilot study

The psychosocial impact of Laryngectomy, the surgical removal of the voice box indicated by throat cancer, is devastating. Up to 30 percent of this patient population has to overcome depression and/or is at risk of being socially isolated. We have introduced the alaryngeal voice in an electro music sample. The collaborative work involved in participating in the music production and listening to the resulting product was perceived as uplifting and motivating for the eight patients who were involved. We conclude that our findings are contributing to the growing evidence supporting the need for the use of music in the care of cancer patients and will use this pilot study in order to develop a systematic framework for the assessment of participant experience, as well as the impact of such class of intervention.