Having had a clear ambition to pursue Music Therapy, Emmeline applied to ECA to study Music. During her studies, she developed her violin practice whilst also pursuing topics such as music psychology and music in the community. 

Utilising these learnings, Emmeline has gone on to have a successful career in Music Therapy where she is carrying out significant and impactful work for children in care as well as regularly contributing to research in the field.

Why ECA?

From a young age, I had a clear aspiration to pursue a career as a music therapist. To achieve this goal, I actively sought out numerous musical opportunities, especially those that involved collaborating with others and using music to benefit the community.

I was particularly drawn to the prospects provided by the ECA program, specifically the Music in the Community module that I undertook during my third and fourth years of study. Additionally, I was drawn to the course's offerings in music psychology, which allowed me to deepen my understanding in this field. Furthermore, I appreciated the chance to enhance my violin skills and overall musicianship.

Moreover, the university's wide range of musical extracurricular activities greatly excited me. I eagerly participated in various orchestras, relishing the opportunity to be a member of each one. 

Tell us about your time at ECA

Studying at the Edinburgh College of Art provided me with invaluable experiences that have shaped me into the therapist I am today. In the initial two years of the course, I had the opportunity to enhance my general musicianship and develop skills that I now utilise on a daily basis. The challenging keyboard skills and harmony classes, although demanding at the time, have proven to be immensely beneficial. 

During my time studying under Dee Isaacs and participating in the Music in the Community course, I engaged in various projects, both in special and mainstream education. While these projects differed from my current work, they allowed me to further build my confidence in using music within the community, even in challenging circumstances. One unforgettable experience was the Quicken Tree performance we organised at the Botanical Gardens, which left a lasting impression on everyone involved. Additionally, through this course, I had the opportunity to visit The Gambia and partake in a Djembe drumming course.

Throughout my university years and beyond, I had the privilege of working alongside Professor Nigel Osborne in organising and facilitating the Balkans Music Camps for children and young people with PMLD and PTSD. Collaborating with Nigel and interacting with the young individuals we encountered taught me valuable lessons both personally and professionally. Furthermore, I had the chance to travel to India with Nigel and volunteer in an orphanage, utilising music as a means of connection and sharing skills with the staff team.

I wouldn't change a single experience from my time at the University of Edinburgh and I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have been afforded such a wealth of opportunities. 

Tell us about your experiences since graduating

Upon graduating from ECA, I immediately pursued a master's degree in music therapy. Thanks to the extensive experience I gained during my time at ECA, I was fortunate enough to be accepted into the program without delay. Building upon the foundation provided by ECA, I successfully completed my studies and embarked on establishing ELM Music Therapy based in the North East of Scotland. Over the past 9 years, the company has flourished and now employs three full-time music therapists.

In addition to my work with ELM Music Therapy, I have actively engaged in the music therapy community by participating in various conferences. One notable experience was presenting a paper at the World Conference of Music Therapy in Japan. This paper, inspired by my international work during my time at ECA, explored the significance of translators in music therapy sessions. Furthermore, I have contributed to several publications, furthering the field of music therapy through sharing my insights and experiences.

I have also had the privilege of sharing my knowledge and expertise through visiting lectures at ECA, on the music therapy master's course at QMU, as well as at the University of Aberdeen. These opportunities have allowed me to inspire and educate future music therapists, contributing to the growth and development of the profession.

While I find fulfilment in all aspects of my work, the most meaningful and rewarding part of my career is the work I do with children facing life-limiting conditions and those receiving end-of-life care. Being able to make a positive impact on their lives through music therapy brings me immense joy and purpose. 

Alumni wisdom

If I was to give any advice to anyone entering first year in September it would be to make the most of every opportunity they are given and enjoy it all! I had so much fun as a student and would love to relive some of those experiences.   

I also think my advice would be the same for anyone graduating this year, every opportunity that comes your way, although it may seem small, will have such an important role in growing you as a person and professional (and continue to have fun!)