Music therapy has special healing abilities, aiding rehabilitation and improving the physical and emotional well-being of the child. Using structured activities that include singing, listening, playing instruments and exercises in imagination, we can achieve therapeutic accomplishments such as acquisition of communicative skills, movement skills, strengthening ability to learn, emotional development, coordination and social skills.

For children with special needs, music therapy is an important therapeutic tool. It can advance the child considerably by developing a means to communicate for children who are not verbal, reduce frustrations and expression of distress, emotional development, and strengthen self-image. The team of therapists works according to a yearly schedule and in small groups to ensure the success of the therapy.

The Shalva Band

The Shalva Band was conceived and assembled during music therapy as part of the Afternoon Program. The participants are musically oriented and enjoy taking part in performances.

Headed by Shai Ben-Shoshan, the band has a large repertoire of songs and a great capacity for learning new songs. The instruments used are mostly percussion, in addition to guitars, organ, flute and a harp.

Performing in the band' and simply being a member of it advance the children's self-esteem and belief in themselves. Music also has the power to convert negative images and misconceptions of the special needs population, thereby teaching people to accept those that are different from them.

Since its inception, the band has performed in many places and events. The professional staff chooses meaningful events for the band to perform in. The children of Shalva must also be taught the concept of giving, accordingly, the band has debuted at the Hartman High School children's fundraiser for underprivileged families and at the municipal bar-mitzvah event for orphaned children.