A HOSPITAL is the last place you would expect to hear music. But at Monash Medical Centre, music therapists fill the wards with songs, hold music lessons and encourage creative expression.

Children can use or borrow anything from guitars and keyboards to drums, percussion instruments and MP3 players.

Music therapist Annette Baron said creating music had been shown to lift the morale of children battling cancer.

She said she had witnessed positive changes in children who took part in music therapy.

"They initially may seem quiet and withdrawn but, as the group unfolds, they become more animated, less anxious and have fun, enjoying singing, playing instruments and interacting with their peers, parents and siblings."

A session can involve writing songs with children, teaching them how to play an instrument or improvising with them.

"Music can be beneficial in helping patients either to be distracted from their pain or validate their experience.

"They might choose to listen to their favourite song or play an instrument while having a procedure done."

Fellow music therapist Elizabeth McLean said the program helped children build self-esteem and develop confidence in group and social situations.

Australian Music Therapy Association educator Catherine Threlfall said there was evidence that music-making was good for individuals and communities.

"For example, music-making can help alleviate depression and reduce anxiety. Learning a wind instrument is great for breath control for kids with asthma.

"For adolescents, music-making and listening choices are powerful forms of positive expression. And singing to people in even the most advanced stage of dementia can benefit them, as familiar songs stay in our memory right to the end of life."

Ms Threlfall encouraged people to sing or play a music instrument. "It's good for you."

Southern Health art curator Rebecca Lovitt said music was a tool to improve patient wellbeing and recovery.

"This, together with positively adding to the physical environment of our hospitals, greatly influences the quality of care we provide, not to mention is loved by the children on the ward."

Ms Lovitt spoke to the Journal during Making Music Being Well Week last week.

The week was aimed at highlighting the benefits of art and music for the quality of life.

Details: Making Music Being Well.