Jeanine Wheeler is a piano teacher and music therapist serving the Lubbock, Texas and Abilene, Texas communities.

Jeanine's Musical Journey

Jeanine comes from a very musical family. Her father plays bassoon, her mother learned cello, her older sister studied violin. Naturally, Jeanine wanted to play an instrument too.Her parents didn’t enroll her in lessons immediately but Jeanine was persistent and begged for lessons for over a year. They finally allowed piano lessons to begin then Jeanine was nine years old.Growing up in Michigan, close to Michigan State University, the first college in the country to offer a music therapy program. When Jeanine was twelve, her mother took her to a lecture presented by Dr. Deforia Lane. She also got Dr. Lane’s book, Music as Medicine, for Christmas which set the course for Jeanine’s musical career.

This inspiring Ted Talk by Dr. Lane brought me to tears. I am amazed by the healing power of music.

What is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is using music as a tool to meet the needs to whoever your client is.Jeanine works with children, many of whom have medical needs or multiple disabilities. She uses music to help them with skills they are addressing in physical therapy and occupational therapy, as well as learning to cope with anxiety. If my daughter, Tracy, had been at the hospital where Jeanine works, she might have used music as a productive activity to fill the time waiting for a procedure to begin. This is not only a way to help the time pass but it is also a wonderful way to alleviate any anxiety she might have. This activity is a huge help for parents as well!

Music therapy in action

Music therapists often co-treat with rehab teams to assist patients who may have had a spinal injury and are working to get out of the bed for the first time. The rhythmicity of music will encourage your movement; it helps you with motor planning.

Watch the change music makes in this gentleman’s ability to walk….and dance!