Proposal

Sonar Voyage

Proposal

 

Introduction

Sonar Voyage is a new innovative piece of music technology, made primarily for use within music therapy. It can be used as an aid for movement rehabilitation, providing motivation, measurement, and a sense of achievement. It is easy to use and quick to set up, small and transportable, aesthetically pleasing and robust whilst remaining affordable.

 

How it Works

Sonar Voyage is an ultra sonic interface; the ultra sonic sensor within the interface (labelled below) detects movement up to 2 meters away.

The software which can be found and installed on this installation disk, allows the user to load the sensor with 2 sounds the first sound, a sound which the client fears or does not like for example a dog barking, is loudest when the client is further away.

 

As the client moves closer to the sensor the fear sound begins to fade and is replaced with a second sound, a reward sound which the client likes for example rain.

 

This use of sound provides motivation and achievement for the client, as the more the client moves the more they are rewarded with a sound they like.

 

Sonar Voyage also allows clients to document their progress using the progression graph, which shows the client how far they have moved, providing measurement again reinforcing a sense of achievement.

How it could be used

Sonar Voyage can be used in different ways, the main way of use is as an aid for movement rehabilitation for example, an amputee patient who is struggling to learn to walk with a prosthetic leg, he has expressed his struggle to his music therapist who has suggested, Sonar Voyage, to the client as an aid.

 

The therapist would then discuss the use of a fear and reward sound with the client and together they will decide upon an appropriate sound for each. The use of Sonar Voyage will provide the client with the motivation needed to continue with their rehabilitation, the sound could act as a distraction from pain and provide another focus.

 

The reward sound adds a sense of achievement for the client as it symbolises the distance travelled. The progression graph also adds to this sense of achievement as it shows a measurement of the distance travelled, adding a visual aspect to the experience.

 

The product could also be used in other ways such as to aid a client in over coming a fear, by walking towards it, this may also help the client to open up in talking about their fear to the therapist.

 

Other possible forms of use outside of music therapy could be for an interactive installation, team building workshops, social scientific experiments etc.

 

Market Research

Sonar Voyage has two market audience’s, the first is the consumer, this would be either a music therapist, community musician, teacher etc, who would purchase Sonar Voyage to use in their practice. The second is the client that the practitioner would use Sonar Voyage with.

The main market for Sonar Voyage will be music therapist however this product could also cross over into community music and schools etc. This means that my market has a broad age range could be either gender and technological experience will be varied.

 

However from my research I have found that whilst music therapists do not use music technology very much at all, on average 7.5% of music therapists have used music technology in practice, studies have shown that music therapists are willing to learn and use.

 

From my research carried out, particularly that for my Literature Review, it has become clear that some of the features that are key for this product and should be focused on in the marketing are:

 

  • Sonar Voyage is a simple and easy to use, piece of technology, anyone could use this, and his or her technological ability does not matter. It looks, feels and is, easy to use whilst still being aesthetically pleasing.
  • Little training is needed to use this product.
  • It is quick to set up; little time is needed to get to grips with or to set up prior to a session.
  • It is small and therefore easy to transport around and store.
  • It is cheap, from my research Sonar Voyage will be the cheapest piece of music technology specifically made for its use.
  • Sonar Voyage can be used on both the body and the mind. It could be used for rehabilitation, to aid those who have movement problems and are trying to increase their stamina, it can provide motivation, distraction from pain, measurement of movement and a sense of achievement or to help clients face their fears, therefore aiding therapy.

 

Some ways in which we could improve marketing would be to hold exhibitions of Sonar Voyage so that therapists etc can see and get experience with the product, we could also run training course, as from my research this seems to be something which is lacking and something there is a definite gap for and holding seminars at music therapy, community music, music education etc conferences.

 

Whilst it is important that the product is marketable to music therapist, it is equally if not more important that the product is suitable for the clients using the product.

 

From my research so far I have found that technology within the area of music therapy is generally being used with children and adolescents, this seems to be because they are generally more knowledgeable in the area and know and like using technology. However it has also become apparent from my research that it is recognised within music therapy that technology is becoming more and more used by everyone now not just youths, and music therapy should therefore begin embracing the use of technology throughout its whole practice more.

 

This suggests that whilst I may want to begin by marketing my product at youths there may definitely be a market for it throughout all ages.

From my funding research so far I have also found that there does appear to be more grants and funds available for projects, which are aims at youths.

Some areas, which I should focus on for this market audience, are:

  • The benefits Sonar Voyage can offer to rehabilitation, it can be an aid, offer motivation to move forward, take the mind away from pain, which may be experienced and offer another focus, offer a sense of achievement and measurement.
  • It can also be affective on the mind, allowing the client to face and conquer their fears whilst being in a therapeutic environment.

 

Other Products On the Market

There are some other music technology products, which are marketed for the area of therapy, education etc however it does seem to be a relatively unexplored area. There are few products available under the price of £1000, there appears to be no products under the price £500 and most of the products appear to be bulky and not easy to transport, below are some examples of what I have found:

 

LED Sound Star

A light system, which reacts to sound, priced at £995.

Vibro Acoustic Body Pillow

Plays frequencies through the pillow which resonant through the body, priced at £630.

Opti- Beam AV System

When user interrupts lightbeams, a certain sound will be played, priced at £4495.

Soundbeam

Uses a mixture of ultra sonic sensors and switches to play sounds, cheapest and most basic kit is priced at, £2695.

 

Funding

The area of music therapy has become increasingly popular over the past 30 years; it became a registered association in 1976 and has over the past 10 years attracted scientific interest particularly in the areas of neurology, bio-medical and social sciences. There are several different grants, which I would likely be able to apply for.

 

The Arts Council of England or Wales

The first is from the Arts Councils of both England and Wales, which offer grants on an individual basis, meaning it would be possible to go directly through the company. There are options to apply for a small grant up to £3000 or a large grant of £5000+.

 

The British Association For Music Therapy

The second grant is from the British Association for Music Therapy who offer small grants to music therapy students and researchers to support them in their studies. Grants will not normally exceed £300 per applicant in any one year and cannot be given towards the cost of fees.

 

Wellcome Trust

Lastly the Wellcome Trust offer grant’s to support biomedical research and the medical humanities, with the aim of improving human and animal health. They offer an arts award grant, which they offer to projects, which, Stimulate interest, excitement and debate about biomedical science through the arts and Encourage new ways of thinking. Funding can support the development of new project ideas, deliver small productions or workshops, investigate and experiment with new methods of engagement through the arts, or develop new collaborative relationships between artists and scientists.

 

Conclusion

Sonar Voyage is the only product of its kind on the market and it is clear from market research that there is a gap in the market for such a product.

 

There are funding options available for a project such as this, and the interest currently surrounding music therapy socially and medically may increase the funding options and opportunities.

 

There is a need and a want for useable, affordable, and small technological interfaces within music therapy. In a society where the majority are now using technology in some form, it is now being recognised that it is also important for music therapy to embrace this change and offer the option of music technology to clients. Sonar Voyage may be able to offer this.

 

This project is also expandable, as other small, affordable and useable interfaces could also be designed which offer other musical experiences, essentially creating a company which designs and creates music technology for the purposes of music therapy etc. Training course are another product which could be offered as from the research above there was a distinct lack and need for training course in how to use technology within therapy and education etc. This may be another way of expanding this project.

 

Revenue

I have looked at other music technology products specifically made for the areas of music therapy, education etc, and have found that most of these products are little under £1000, there appears to be no products under the price £500 and most of the products appear to be bulky and not easy to transport, below are some examples of what I have found:

 

LED Sound Star

Reacts to sounds by display relevant light displays.

 

 

LED Sound to Light Wall

Simular to the product above.

 

Vibro Acoustic Body Pillow

Plays frequencies through the pillow which resonants through the body.

 

Opti- Beam AV System

When user interrupts light perhaps with a hand etc, the light beam will play a certain sound.

 

Soundbeam

Uses a mixture of ultra sonic sensors and switches to play sounds.

Switches

 

Pricelist for Sonar Voyage

Arduino Uno – £22.19 x1 (however if bought in bulk could be cheaper, 10 = £19.97) Inc VAT.

USB Leads – 91p each

Ultra Sonic Sensor – £27.67 (inc VAT)

Enclosure – £4.59

Total: £55.36

 

Labour takes around 3 hours as it is now understood how to make the product. This includes time to solder, drill holes in the enclosure, fix together and burn a disk of the software. So we would be looking at a sale price of around £200 to begin with, making a profit of around £100-£50.

Funding

Youth Music Network

I looked into this organisation as I am planning to focus Sonar Voyage for Youth’s during its development and possibly introduce it into an older market later on. However when I looked into the steps I found I was not eligable to apply as an individual, which leads me to look into organisations such as Community music wales who enable you to apply through their name. This may be something I should consider.

 

The community foundation supports a diverse range of activities that help to build strong, vibrant communities across Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. We give grants to groups addressing priority needs in these communities and for whom a small amount of money can make a big difference.

Through our grant making we strive to:

  • Help people who are most disadvantaged and isolated
  • Encourage people to get involved in improving their own community
  • Give people opportunities others take for granted
  • Respond to the needs and concerns of people living in local communities

I thought this grant may be an option as I am from Swindon however when I looked into this further they cover Somerset and not Wiltshire.

The British Association for Music Therapy is able to make small grants to music therapy students and researchers to support them in their studies. If you are currently a student on an HPC approved music therapy training programme, or undertaking research related to music therapy at a recognized UK HEI, you can apply for a grant to help with the costs of travel, books or learning resources, personal therapy or other related expenses.

Applications can be made at any time of year but grants are allocated from an annual fund, beginning in April each year. Grants will not normally exceed £300 per applicant in any one year and cannot be given towards the cost of fees.

 

Whilst Sound Sense does not provide funding it self it can put you in contact with organisation which can:

  • supporting their professional development and providing opportunities to network
  • giving information and advice and helping people make contacts
  • raising awareness of issues in community music
  • running a membership scheme

It may be worth me signing up to Sound Sense in order to receive further information.

 

The Arts Councils of both England and Wales offer grants on an individual basis, meaning I would not have to go through an organisation such as Community music Wales I could go directly. I could apply for a small grant up to £3000 or a large grant of £5000+. I would have to prepare a well researched proposal and application form.

 

Our funding supports the brightest minds in biomedical research and the medical humanities, with the aim of improving human and animal health.

 

Arts Awards:

  • stimulate interest, excitement and debate about biomedical science through the arts
  • examine the social, cultural and ethical contexts of biomedical science
  • encourage new ways of thinking
  • promote high-quality interdisciplinary practice and collaborations between arts, science and education practice
  • support formal and informal learning.

Small Arts Awards (small to medium-sized projects – up to and including £30 000)
Funding can support the development of new project ideas, deliver small productions or workshops, investigate and experiment with new methods of engagement through the arts, or develop new collaborative relationships between artists and scientists.

 

Conclusion

The Wellcome Trust appears to be the most suitable funding so far, as whilst my idea involves music it also involves health, and this should be played upon as it is more of a niche market then just ‘music’ and there appear to be different and perhaps more accessible grants because of this.

The Wellcome Trust, specialising in bio-medical science which my product idea would fall under, they may also be able to offer support which arts councils may not, they also specialise in innovative technology which is something I will be looking to work with. It would also enable me to look into my interest into the science behind music therapy which is becoming a increasingly explored area by science.

Community Music Wales Workshop

What is community music for?

Fun, sense of belonging, means of expression, satisfaction of creating music.

The human urge is to create.

However some people face barriers such as:

Skills, Transport, Access, Confidence, Illness, Money, Space, Equipment, lack of encouragement.

Community music overcomes these barriers with:

Lessons, Community groups, Outreach, Places to practice, Workshops, Opportunities.

 

Music can be used as a tool too: 

Bring change, Achieving something of value, building confidence, personal growth, community development, economic development.

 

Learning styles:

We then planned a 1-1 and group sessions and ran it with a partner or as a group, these sessions taught us the importance or time management, planning, time extensions (if participant/s move through session plan faster then anticipated.), covering all learning styles etc.

 

Assertive Techniques 

 

Use sentences beginning with ‘I’

‘Own’ your feelings

Avoid blame/esculation

Specific about your needs

Broken record technique – repeat until they do it – only in emergency.

Do not raise your voice or engage in argument.

Be aware of your own irritation – what might be irritating you may not be irritating anyone else.

Build relationships with teachers and support workers, they will help in the event of bad behaviour.

Find out about the class, to avoid pupils being bored.

Sonar Voyage – User Persona

June, is a music therapist at a hospital and works with many patients with different illnesses and needs everyday. She began using Sonar Voyage when she started working with a client who was recovering from a leg amputation, the client was undergoing physiotherapy to help with recovery but was finding it particularly difficult. Progress was slow and the client began loosing motivation to continue trying to walk again.

 

This was when June began using Sonar Voyage, she first suggested the interface to the client and explained exactly what it does and how it works, when the clients agree they began by having a session on the clients fear sound, they took time to select a correct sound for the client. The client had been in an vehicle accident and it was important that the sound did not trigger memories which may prove to difficult to overcome, they settled upon an Alarm Clock, as it often frustrated the client and reminded them of getting up for work which was not something they were fond of. It would give the right amount of motivation to the client to move forward without providing to much emotional stress for the client. They then selected an appropriate reward sound.

 

June began working closely with the clients physiotherapist to ensure she knew the goals and limits to work with.

 

Within a month the client was able to walk a 2 meters. The client expressed to June that the use of Sonar Voyage gave them the motivation and push they needed at a time when they were willing to give up, the sounds provided a reason to move & the more the moved the more accomplishment and reward you felt from the change in sound, the sound also worked as a good measurement for the client.

 

June found the Sonar Voyage easy to use, all she needed to do was plugged in the interface to her computer, load in 2 sound and click on, it was very simple. She also found the price affordable.

 

June has since used the Sonar Voyage with a client who is experiencing emotional difficulties since being bitten by a dog, the client was a avid dog lover before the incident however is now extremely scared to be around them, by using the Sonar Voyage June hope it may help the client in facing and overcoming their fear.

Marketing

My prototype, Sonar Voyage, has 2 market audience’s, the first is the consumer, this would be either a music therapist, community musician, teacher etc, who would purchase Sonar Voyage to use in their practice. The second is the client that the practitioner would use Sonar Voyage with.

We will begin by looking at the first market audience, the practitioner.

It is important that Sonar Voyage appeals to this audience and is presented as something which the practitioner could use in their everyday practice and will therefore purchase.

The main market for Sonar Voyage will be music therapist however this product could also cross over into community music and schools etc. This means that my market has a broad age range could be either gender and technological experience will be varied.

However from my research I have found that whilst music therapists do not use music technology very much at all, on average 7.5% of music therapists have used music technology in practice, studies have shown that music therapists are willing to learn and use.

From my research carried out, particularly that for my Literature Review, it has become clear that some of the features that are key for this product and should be focused on in the marketing are:

  • Sonar Voyage is a simple and easy to use, piece of technology, anyone could use this, their technological ability does not matter. It looks, feels and is, easy to use whilst still being aesthetically pleasing.
  • Little training is needed to use this product.
  • It is quick to set up, little time is needed to get to grips with or to set up prior to a session.
  • It is small and therefore easy to transport around and store.
  • It is cheap, from my research Sonar Voyage will be the cheapest piece of music technology specifically made for its use.
  • Sonar Voyage can be used on both the body and the mind. It could be used for rehabilitation, to aid those who have movement problems and are trying to increase their stamina, it can provide motivation, distraction from pain, measurement of movement and a sense of achievement or to help clients face their fears, therefore aiding therapy.

Some ways in which we could improve marketing would be to hold exhibitions of Sonar Voyage so that therapists etc can see and get experience with the product, we could also run training course, as from my research this seems to be something which is lacking and something there is a definite gap for and holding seminars at music therapy, community music, music education etc conferences.

The second market audience is the client.

Whilst it is important that the product is marketable to music therapist, it is equally if not more important that the product is suitable for the clients using the product.

From my research so far I have found that technology within the area of music therapy is generally being used with children and adolescents, this seems to be because they are generally more knowledgable in the area and know and like using technology. However it has also become apparent from my research that it is recognised within music therapy that technology is becoming more and more used by everyone now not just youths, and music therapy should therefore begin embracing the use of technology throughout its whole practice more.

This suggests that whilst I may want to begin by marketing my product at youths there may definitely be a market for it throughout all ages.

From my funding research so far I have also found that there does appear to be more grants and funds available for projects which are aims at youths.

Some areas which I should focus on for this market audience are:

  • The benefits Sonar Voyage can offer to rehabilitation, it can be an aid, offer motivation to move forward, take the mind away from pain which may be experienced and offer another focus, offer a sense of achievement and measurement.
  • It can also be affective on the mind, allowing the client to face and conquer their fears whilst being in a therapeutic environment.

It will be important that therapists etc are educated in this piece of music technology so that it can be offered as an option to clients, whilst it is important to make this product useable and appealing to clients it is crucial that we focus on the practitioner as they will be our point of contact and who we will be selling the product too, they are how we will get the product out to the clients.

Dissertation Literature Review: The use of Music Technology within Music Therapy

My dissertation literature review has helped with my product development and applied research also as it looks in the area of music technology & music therapy which is the area that I am focussing on. My lit review has provided me with important statistics and facts as to why music therapists are not using music technology as much within the are as would be expected. My dissertation can be read below:

The use of Music Technology within Music Therapy

Introduction

This article will review literature, which looks into the use of music technology within the area of music therapy. The review will be split into key areas found within the literature, these will be, The History of Music Therapy, Traditional Techniques used Within Music Therapy, Technology within Music Therapy, How these new Technologies are being Utilized in Music Therapy, The Benefits of New Technologies in Music Therapy & The Disadvantages of New Technologies in Music Therapy.

A variety of literature will be discussed during this review including a total of five articles from journals and nine books.

 

The History of Music Therapy

Healing through music is a theory, which has existed for many thousands of years and most music therapy handbooks begin with a section upon ancient theories such as in Maranto’s introduction to, The Art and Science of Music Therapy, “the oldest account of medical practices, the Kahum papyrus [1800 BCE], provides an account of the use of incantations for healing, and references to the therapeutic uses of music are continually found throughout eastern and western history.” (1995.P.9) Darnley-Smith & Patey’s book, Music Therapy, includes a similar introduction, “As far as we can tell music probably existed as a form of healing in the most primitive of societies.” (2004. P.6) Suggesting these ancient theories played a key part in the development of music therapy.

Although healing through music has been in practice for many centauries, music therapy was only developed as a professional association within the UK in the 1950’s and is now seen as both an art and a science. (MARANTO. 1995. P.10) Music therapy has been described in many different ways, The Handbook of Music Therapy defines it as, “the use of sounds and music within an evolving relationship between client/patient and therapist to support and develop physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual well being.” (BUNT. L. 2002. P10-11)

 

Traditional Techniques Used Within Music Therapy

The most common traditional methods used in music therapy seem to be improvisation, reception and composing, which are mentioned in both Maranto’s article (1995. P.10) and Bruscia’s book (1991, P.5.) both books also mention other methods such as performing (1995. P.10) & recreating (1991, P.5.) however these seem to be used less frequently as they are not mentioned in other literature.

These methods use mostly traditional instruments such as vocals, piano & drums (HANSER. S. B. 2005. P6-8) These methods have been tried and tested sufficiently by the music therapy profession over the past 60 years, meaning they have been well documented making them the preferred method of practice for the majority of trained music therapist and music therapy students.

 

Improvisation

Bruscia summarizes that during therapeutic improvisation the therapist will help to create an ongoing accompaniment, they may also incorporate a theme or idea to base the piece upon. The client may then choose an instrument to create a melody, rhythm or lyrics. The piece may be a solo or perhaps an ensemble with family members or other clients. (1991, P.5.) Hanser & Clair cite different ways in which the technique is used, such as call and response between therapist and client. (1995, P.350-351)

It has become apparent from these texts that improvisation plays a key role in music therapy and appears to be one of the most widely used techniques, “Free improvisation is a central part of music therapy. The benefits…are that techniques allow exploration of feeling and the communication of these feelings in a non-verbal way, thus bypassing the restrictions, inherent in spoken language…” (TOWSE. E. 1995. P.328)

 

Recreating

This is the technique of reproducing music, perhaps from notation or ear, by the client. This method could be used to provoke memory or perhaps as part of a performance. (BRUSCIA. 1991. P.5&6) Whilst this technique is not cited in Maranto’s article there is mention of methods which crossover with recreating such as performance. (1995. P.5)

 

Composing

This is the composition of song which may include lyrics, melody, rhythm etc that have been written by the client (BRUSCIA. 1991. P.5&6) The composition process may begin from improvisation and is often used as a means to discuss personal issues, express emotions & as a form of accomplishment. (HIBBEN. 1999. P.3)

 

Listening

Receptive music therapy involves the client listening to music for purposes such as relaxation, guided imagery, movement and painting. (BRUSCIA. 1991. P.5&6) “One of the most important parts of receptive music is that it is different from a creative activity which involves making something, and it is also different from entertainment, which is entirely passive.” (TOWSE. 1995. P.338) Towse goes on to say that music can offer something which other arts therapies cannot, which is to participate without having to be physically engaged. (1995. P.338)

 

Technology Within Music Therapy

Technology is now a part of everyday life for the majority of people, “With the current widespread diffusion and use of ICT in all domains of everyday life, ICTs are increasingly considered a fundamental and necessary resource for every European citizen.” (SILVERSTONE. R. 2005. P.21)

The invention of such devices as the internet & mobile phones has meant that for a lot of people many limitations were broken down and, with technology getting ever cheaper, many people are finding new independence, “…especially due to the accessibility of technology and the increasing numbers of adult clients who are utilizing various forms of technology to enhance their quality of life. This can be seen in the increasing numbers of older adults who are using social networking sites to communicate with old friends as well as the number of younger individuals using cell phones to text message and communicate with others.” (CEVASCO & HONG. 2009. P. 71)

It is therefore unsurprising that the health industry has also been affected by the invention of these new technologies, “Computer, electronic and digital technologies have become part of daily life both personal and professional. Technological applications are growing daily in health care, including computer mediated therapy, supervision, professional networking, research and distance learning.” (MALCHIODI. C.A. 2000. P. 9)

Technologies such as the Internet and computers are now being used everyday through out health care, for things such as research, communication between professionals and data input. However it has only recently been explored how these technologies could also benefit the client/patient.

 

Telehealth

Telehealth appears to be the most successful form of using these new communication technologies within health care to date. Telehealth uses telecommunications to provide health assessments, diagnosis, consultations etc. Services such as E-Therapy, communication between client and professional via the Internet, and WedCounseling, counseling via the Internet, have now become an alternative means of receiving therapy. (MALCHIODI. C.A. 2000. P.16)

It is something which has been explored in the field of music therapy, however only vaguely, meaning it has not yet been possible to know the full extent of benefits this service may be able to offer to the therapy. Minimal documentation can be found upon the subject with Krout, Baker & Muhlberger’s article upon Information Sharing being the most detailed. In the article they discuss the results of an experiment, in which music therapy students met over Skype and carried out songwriting sessions. (2010, P.80)

The results achieved from this experiment were promising, participants commented that their experience of collaborating over Skpye was not overly different from doing so face to face, “It didn’t matter whether this process was taking place face to face or Skype to Skype – the collaboration process felt very similar.” (2010, P. 83)

There were also some difficulties experienced such as, signal loss, which was found to be disrupting to the session; playing and singing in time together, was also not possible. It was also discussed that rapport may not develop with the client as quickly as it would during a face to face session, due to the misjudgment of facial expressions. (2010. P. 83, 84)

However with technology developing at an extraordinary rate it is extremely likely that the difficulties experienced during this study will soon be non-existent. Whilst telehealth will never replace in-person therapy it can offer an alternative and open the door to therapy to clients who before may not have been able to experience it due to their circumstances, as Krout, Baker & Muhlberger’s quote “It should be noted that the purpose of the study was not to investigate replacing face to face, in person songwriting…it was to begin to develop protocols that might be replicated in the future with clients who do not have access to in-person music therapy.” (2010, P.80) Malchiodi makes a similar point, “While in-person therapy is still the preferred relationship health care professionals…are realizing that there are advantages to online interventions and communication in certain cases.” (2000. P.14) She goes on to state the benefits for those with, “Physical, geographical or lifestyle limitations” (2000. P.14).

 

Musical Interfaces Used Within Music Therapy

Music technology has been used within the area of music therapy for some decades now. Several pieces of equipment are being used which were primarily created for general music making, but went on to be adapted to fit the area. Others have been specifically created for primary use within music therapy. Below is a list and brief description of the technology currently being used in music therapy (MAGEE. 2006. P.142) (HUNT, KIRK & NEIGHBOUR. 2004. P.52):

 

Soundbeam

Created in the late 80’s, Soundbeam uses movement sensors to translate gesture into sound. The sensors can be set to pick up certain types of movement, for instance if the user is limited to the movement of one finger the sensor can be set to a minimal range, however if the user is able to move a wheel chair it can be set to larger range.

Soundbeam appears to be one of the most popular pieces of technology being used in Music therapy, as Magee’s found in her study, “This reveals a clear majority of technology users’ experience with electronic musical equipment using MIDI generated sounds triggered by specialist input devices such as Soundbeam (n=26)” (2006. P. 142)

 

MidiGrid

MidiGrid is a piece of computer software also created in the late 80’s (HUNT & KIRK. 2003. P. 135), which displays a grid of boxes upon the screen, each grid contains a different, instrument or note etc, clicking upon the grid with a computer mouse can trigger the sounds. (HUNT, KIRK & NEIGHBOUR. 2004. P.51)

MidiGrid is not mentioned in any of the articles, which carried out surveys with music therapists, suggesting it has received minimal use. However in the article, Multiple Interfaces for Music Therapy, it discusses how MidiGrid has been expanded to become more identifiable as a musical instrument whilst still remaining accessible to severely impaired users. (HUNT, KIRK & NEIGHBOUR. 2004. P.52)

 

MidiCreator

Developed shortly after the MidiGrid, this device converts signals received via sensors, these could be pressure, distance or direction sensors etc. The program will then send out a Midi message of notes or chords in response. (HUNT, KIRK & NEIGHBOUR. 2004. P.52)

In Magee’s survey, mentioned above, Midicreator is averagely used half as much by music therapists as Soundbeam, despite this it is still the second most frequently used piece of technology within the practice. (2006. P. 142)

 

Adapted Musical Instruments

Adapted instruments are used with people who have physical disabilities, which may prohibit them from playing a traditional instrument. Crowe and Rio state in their article that adapted musical instruments are one of the most extensively explored areas of music technology within the music therapy practice. (2004 P.291-292) They also help individuals to actively participate in music making which they may have been unable to partake in before. (2004. P.301) However examples of these adaptations within literature appear to remain unexplored.

 

Other

Magee’s survey, which looks into the technology being used by music therapists also lists other technologies which have been used such as Electronic & Midi instruments, Recording equipment, Amplification & Vibroacoustic equipment however they were substantially and variably less. (2006. P. 142)

Crowe and Rio however state an apposing argument in their article, “The use of midi capability has been explored extensively as a tool in music therapy practice and research.” (2004. P.293) They also state that the American Music Therapy Association’s entry requirements for 2003 request a basic knowledge of the midi keyboard. (2004. P.283)

In Hunt, Kirk & Neighbour’s article they discuss instruments which they were in the process of creating, such as the Audiovisual drum. The drum would react when played not only with sound but also with a image projected from the inside of the drum onto the skin. (2004. P.53) However there appears to be no further publications upon the instrument.

From the above we can see that the development of new technologies within music therapy seemed to peek in the late 80’s early 90’s however there have been minimal developments since. (MAGEE & BURLAND. 2006. P.34) We will go on to discuss this later in The Disadvantages of New Technologies in Music Therapy.


How these new Technologies are being utilized in Music Therapy

Music technology within music therapy has focused primarily upon people with severe physical disabilities, as Magee and Burland noticed during their study in 2006. (P.38) However Hunt’s et al research makes it apparent that there has been clear benefits gained by physically disabled clients who are using technology as it has enabled them to receive therapy that they may have otherwise been unable too have. (2004. P.50)

A study, carried out by Magee in which surveys were sent out to the Association of Professional Music Therapists, gathered results which estimated that on average only 7.2% of the entire music therapy profession, at the time of data collection, had at some stage used electronic music technologies within clinical practice. (2006. P.142) Cevasco & Hong conducted a similar survey receiving comparable results, “Based on the results of this survey, MTSI (Music Therapy Students and Interns) have greater accessibility to technology than the MT-BC’s (Music Therapist – Board Certified)…however they are not using these devices as much for clinical use.” (2009. p.71)

What is particularly interesting from Cevasco & Hongs results is that MTSI’s who are currently under going what should be the most up to date training and have access to the latest technology, are in fact using the technology a lot less than MT-BC’s, who may have been practicing in the area for sometime and quite possibly have received their training many years ago. This brings into question the training that MTSI’s are receiving in the technological area of music therapy.

In Crowe and Rios article it becomes apparent that The American Music Therapy Association’s entry requirements are outdated, they state that only a basic knowledge of the midi keyboard is needed and the only understanding of computers required is in research methods. These requirements were taken from 2003, due to lack of recent references however the technological requirements are still particularly low considering the technology available at that time, as Crowe and Rio go onto state, “Given the amount of technological support now available to practicing music therapists theses standards constitute a minimal requirement.” (2004. P.284)

Magee and Burland found that, “The participants in this study had mostly developed skills in doing this work through a combination of learning from multidisciplinary colleagues, applying concepts from relevant treatment models and trial and error in use of the equipment.”  (2006. P.33) Showing a definitive lack of training in the area of music technology within music therapy, which Magee found to be one of the main causes for the lack of technology being used within the area. (2006. P.142)

However despite there currently being no clear training or process set by organizations for using music technology within the area, Magee and Burland found during their study that a process has become apparent to those therapist’s who are using technology in their practice, ”There is a clear process which needs to be followed when using Electronic music technologies (EMT’S) in clinical work with clients with complex problems. This includes establishing an understanding of the clients movement patterns in order to choose appropriate input devices and the musical sound which can be created.” (2006. P.56)

Magee and Burland also state steps, which should be followed when using music technology, these include confirming the client understands that they are making the sounds heard, correct positioning and proficient planning. (2006. P.29)

There have also been other developments in the area including Hunt’s et al research and developments into user centered design’s, “With many recent projects, the main aim is to develop technological systems that help people to “lose themselves” in artistic or emotional expression – in other words for the quality of interaction to be so high that users aren’t aware that they’re using technology.” (HUNT et al. 2004. P.51) Hunt’s et al approach could potentially make using technology in therapeutically practice much easier, not only for the client but also for the therapist, which may lower the need for such extensive training.

 

The Benefits of New Technologies in Music Therapy

Despite there being a lack of music technology used in music therapy, those who have partaken in its use have seen clear benefits.

One of the main benefits, which become apparent in several texts, is how music technology allows access to music therapy for severely physically disabled clients who would otherwise be unable to receive it; “Music technology can give people access to music (and thus music therapy) by providing a means of transducing limited physical gestures into musical expression.” (HUNT et al. 2004. P.50) Magee and Burland state a similar finding in their article, “Client gains include access to music making when this might not otherwise be possible and enhanced opportunities for both musical expression and for self awareness.” (2006. P.6)

Crowe and Rio also state that music technology gives physically disabled clients, who are unable to communicate, an opportunity to do so. (2004. P.301) And Hunt et al also expresses how technology enables, “Access to real time sound control for those with limited movement.”(2004. P.50)

However due to the focus of music technology in music therapy being heavily based on severely physically disabled clients, it has led to neglect of research and development into how technology in music therapy can also be of benefit to less physically disabled clients. (MAGEE. 2006. P.143) We shall look into this further in The Disadvantages of Music Technology within Music Therapy.

Technology within therapy has also provided great benefit to children and adolescents, as Hunt et al states, “Traditional instruments are related to strict training, which can be off putting for young people…Mary Abbotson…has worked with special-needs teenagers where the attraction of a “music computer” was the only thing that initially kept them in the music therapy room” (2004. P.51

Vibroacoustic therapy, which was mentioned above as a less frequently used form of technology within music therapy, uses technology to affect the sound waves of physical matter, such as the human body. This helps to deal with pain management by, as Crowe and Rio cite the work of McClellan (1988), “restoration of the entire body to its natural vibratory rate.” (2004. P.53) However as we saw from the statistics, this therapy is currently not being widely used within the area, and crosses over heavily with science. (SKILLE & WIGRAM. 1995. P.23)

Similar benefits seem to resonate throughout different texts such as Crowe and Rio’s article which states “increased motivation, participation, self-esteem, expression, and social interaction due to the use of technology in music therapy”. (P.302 & 303) Magee and Burland discuss the same benefits within their text with particular focus upon the empowerment gained by the client through technology enabling independence and therefore enhancing quality of life. (2006. P.6 & 8 ) Crowe and Rio state a similar point, of how technology has offered clients great control over themselves and environment, which has proved to be particularly liberating for the client. (2004. P.294)

Magee and Burland also state how the use of technology in music therapy is bringing new opportunities to the practice enabling it to build networks with other related areas, “Applying EMT’s also Enhances opportunities for working with other members of the multidisciplinary team and assists with integrating music therapy into the broader therapy program.” (2006. P.33-34)

 

The Disadvantages of New Technologies in Music Therapy

It has become apparent throughout this review that technology within music therapy is not being utilized as much as would be expected in the 21st centaury, we shall now explore possible reasons for why this is occurring.

The main reason which seems to arise throughout different texts is the lack of training available for both qualified music therapists and music therapy students, Crowe and Rio cite, “As a professional discipline, music therapy has not extensively addressed the issue of educating students in technology pertinent to music therapy practice.” (2004. P.283) Magee presents a similar verdict in her article, ”The findings reveal that the primary barrier from incorporating these tools involves a lack of training at an introductory level and skills development at a more advance level.” (MAGEE. 2006. P.139)

Magee and Burland also state that Britain in particular has been criticized for being slow in the introduction of music technology within music therapy. (2006. P.10) Cevasco & Hong also found concerning results, “Many MT-BC’s stated they did not even know what types of technology existed for use in music therapy.” (2009. P.71-72) Suggesting that training in music technology is an issue, which urgently needs addressing by music therapy courses and boards.

Magee also specifies in her article that training should concentrate on how to appropriately include music technologies within a therapeutic environment and explain the benefits involved for the client. (2006. P.139) From Magee’s text it becomes apparent that many music therapists believe technology can only be used with clients who suffer from profound physical disabilities. (2006. P.143) This is an issue which should also be addressed in the training process.

Another issue which emerged from several texts is the quality of sound and control experienced when using music technologies in practice, for instance Hunt et al quotes, “They also cite a lack of control subtlety, and timbre that “wore thin” after much use” (2004. P.52) Magee and Burland found similar results in their study, “the existing tools lack the facility to control subtle manipulation of components resulting in favored synthesized timbres ‘wearing thin’ after repeated use.” (2006. P.34)

Hunt et al goes on to mention a possible solution being developed; new piece of music technology, designed specifically for music therapy, Ensemble is a program, which loads midi sounds into the music software Reaktor, enabling them to be continuously manipulated, therefore taking old sounds and creating new dimensions. (2004. P.52)

Hunt et al continues to say, “This approach will open new interactive sound and image worlds and developments in the practice of therapy, which aren’t so much limited by the clients capability but by the creativity shown in designing the new instruments and supporting tool kits and our willingness to use them in practice.” (2004. P.58) Magee and Burland make a similar argument, “Greater interdisciplinary collaboration in the development of appropriate tools is required” (2006. P.33) Magee also address’ how many therapists stopped using technology in their practice due to equipment breaking and not having sufficient skills or support to repair them. (2006. P.143)

Suggesting that the engineers involved in the creation of future technology for music therapy purposes, must take great consideration in the practicalities and usability of the products they design and engaging in a close partnership with practicing music therapists could prove to be beneficial.  Magee and Burland mention guidelines for future technology for music therapy is their article, “There is the aim to create EMT’s which are able to provide a comparable variety of shape, sound and playing techniques to that provided by acoustic instruments, with particular consideration of timber control & adequate tactile feedback. There is also recognition that tools must be reliable and not overly complex.” (2006. P.34)

Other points expressed were the preference of direct contact and physical engagement which traditional instruments offer. (MAGEE. 2006. P.143) Magee and Burland mention a similar concern; “There are aesthetic and therapeutic benefits of acoustic instruments which are limitations when it comes to EMT’s…particularly in terms of visual appearance. Acoustic instruments have greater evocative capabilities because of their multisensory appearance.” (2006. P.27)

Cost is another key concern which music therapists have when using technology, as Cevasco & Hong quote, “Some of the MT-BC’s mentioned that the cost of technology was especially difficult for music therapists…Others indicated an interest in obtaining grants to purchase technology and wanted further information on how to find the funding in order to include current technology in their clinical practice.” (2009. P.72) Magee makes a similar observation, “Practical issues emerged as the most common contributing factor preventing the use of electronic technologies, including access to and a lack of space for such equipment, not having enough time to set up the equipment within the clinical workload and difficulties mobilizing the equipment.” (2006. P.142)

 

Conclusion Of Literature

It has become apparent from this review that the literature available upon the subject is extremely limited and much of it is outdated, many of the articles used in this review concluded similarly, such as Magee’s paper, “More detailed investigation of existing applications of electronic music technologies in music therapy practice is warranted, particularly into technologies which incorporate specialist input devices.” (2006. P.144)

Therefore it is essential to extend upon the methods used to gather further research. Other methods such as the Internet, TV programs and holding interviews, where possible, with individuals who have shown clear involvement in the area, should all be explored.

Magee suggests an area for further research in other therapeutic professions, “The issue of training and support in the application of electronic assistive technologies reflect key topics for concern across the wider allied health professions at the current time…” (2006. P.144) And Malchiodi’s book, Art Therapy and Computer Technology, discussed above, talks of the use of digital media within Art Therapy, “I am always exploring what media do, how they affect us differently, what qualities they convey, how they influence the circulation of energy in spaces and in people and how new media and new interactions among existing media improves practice.” (2000. P.88)

Suggesting other art therapies may be able to offer an alternative view on technology within therapy, which could prove to be extremely beneficial to its development within music therapy. Therefore meaning further investigation into how technology is being used within art therapies is required.

Other areas that also require further research are; where technology works best within music therapy, training on technology within music therapy, techniques that could and are being used with technology in music therapy, current technological developments taking place within music therapy, other technological developments which could be used in music therapy but are not currently and where the future of music technology and music therapy may lead.

Further areas of interest may become apparent along the line of research and should also be addressed appropriately to ensure maximum and up to date knowledge of the subject before a clear conclusion can be drawn.

 

Bibliography

Books

MARANTO. C.D. 1995. Foreword. In: WIGRAM. T. SAPERSTON. B & WEST. R. The Art and Science of Music Therapy: A Handbook. Switzerland: Harwood Academic Publishers. P.5,9 & 10

DARNLEY-SMITH. R & PATEY. H.M. 2004. Music Therapy: Creative Therapies In Practice. London: SAGE Publications. P.6.

BUNT. L & HOSKYNS. S 2002. The Handbook of Music Therapy. East Sussex: Brunner Routledge. P10-11

BRUSCIA. K. E. 1991. Case Studies in Music Therapy. Gilsum: Barcelona Publishers. P.5&6

HANSER. S. B. 2005. The New Music Therapists Handbook. Second Edition. Boston: Berklee Press.  P. 6-8

HANSER. S. B & CLAIR. A.A. Retrieving the Losses of Alzheimer’s Disease for patients and Care- Givers with the Aid of Music. In: WIGRAM. T. SAPERSTON. B & WEST. R. The Art and Science of Music Therapy: A Handbook. Switzerland: Harwood Academic Publishers. P.350-351.

TOWSE. E. 1995. Listening and Accepting. In: WIGRAM. T. SAPERSTON. B & WEST. R. The Art and Science of Music Therapy: A Handbook. Switzerland: Harwood Academic Publishers. P.328 & 338

HIBBEN. J. 1999. Inside Music Therapy: Client Experiences. Gilsum: Barcelona Publishers. P.3

SILVERSTONE. R. 2005. Media Technology and Everyday Life in Europe: From Information to Communication. Aldershot: Ashgate Publishing. P.21

MALCHIODI. C.A. 2000. Art Therapy & Computer Technology: A Virtual Studio of Possibilities. London: Jessica Kingsley Publisher LTD. P. 9, 14, 16, 88

MAGEE. W. L. & BURLAND. K. 2006. Exploring the use of Electronic Music Technologies In Clinical Music Therapy: Establishing Definitions and Scope of Practice: Final Report. Leeds: Institute of Neuropalliative Rehabilitation. P.6, 8, 10, 27, 29, 33, 34, 38, 56

SKILLE. O & WIGRAM. T. The Effect of Music, Vocalisation and Vibration on Brain and Muscle Tissue: Studies in Vibroacoustic Therapy. In: WIGRAM. T. SAPERSTON. B & WEST. R. The Art and Science of Music Therapy: A Handbook. Switzerland: Harwood Academic Publishers. P.23.

Journals

CEVASCO. A & HONG. A. 2009. Utilizing technology in clinical practice: A comparison of board certified music therapists and music therapy students. Music Therapy Perspectives. Volume 29. P.71, 72

KROUT. R. E. BAKER. F.A & MUHLBERGER. R. 2010. Information Sharing: Designing, piloting and evaluating an online collaborative song writing environment and protocol using Skype technology. Music Therapy Perspectives. Volume.  28. P.80, 83 & 84

MAGEE. W. L. 2006. Electronic Technologies in Clinical Music Therapy: A Survey of Practice and Attitudes. Technology and Disabilities. Volume 18. P.139, 142, 143, 144

HUNT. A. KIRK. R & NEIGHBOUR. M. 2004. Multimedia Interfaces For Music Therapy. IEEE Multimedia. Volume 11:3. P.50, 51, 52, 53, 58

CROWE. B. J & RIO. R. 2004. Implications of Technology In Music Therapy Practice & Research For Music Therapy Education: A Review of Literature. The Journal of Music Therapy. Volume 41:4. P.283, 284, 291,292, 293, 294, 301, 302, 303

 

Idea Development

I have decided I would like to build a piece of technology which could primarily be used in the area of music therapy but which could cross over into education, cultural and social events, and installations.

Below are videos of some of the other music therapy technology that already exists:

Music Therapy with a Switch

Use of a switch allowing user who may otherwise not be physically able to join in with music making to be a part of it.

Although there is obvious improvements which could be made to this product such as sound quality, it is an idea which has definite potential.

Virtual Music Instrument

This time using software instead of a physical object, this software uses a webcam to detect movement which then triggers a sound.

Again great potential but software looks outdated and could do a lot more, and use much better sound quality.

Apollo Ensemble

Apollo Ensemble is perhaps one of the most up to date pieces of music technology hardware available within music therapy. Its design and sensitivity allows severely disabled people to use the instrument with as little movement as a eye from left to right.

This is an extremely promising piece of technology for music therapy.

Grid Player App

A piece of technology using affordable and accessible products for users. An app is something which could be downloaded by anyone with the technology for a small price. This App focuses particularly on speech but a simular App could be design solely for music.

The Skoog

Easy to play, easy to adapt, could be used by anyone. Aesthetically pleasing particularly for children.

OptiMusic

Use’s beams of light which when intercepted play a sound, again aesthetically pleasing, fun and encourages movement.

Musical Touch Wall

Harder to play and would need adapting for those with more sever disabilities however it looks good and sounds good no matter what you press, therefore always being rewarding for the user.

4D Creative

Interactive immersive spaces which are highly engaging simular to a multi sensory room but with a focus on education. Expensive but worth it.

The Drake Music Project’s aims are,

“Drake Music breaks down disabling barriers to music through innovative approaches to learning, teaching and making music. Our focus is on nurturing creativity through exploring music and technology in imaginative ways. We put quality music-making at the heart of everything we do, connecting disabled and non-disabled people locally, nationally and internationally.”

 

Conclusion of Research

From my research so far I have found that I want to make a physical music interface which is specifically for music therapy but could cross over into other areas. I would like to focus on physical interfaces as from my research into the area I have often found that movement plays a key part is music therapy particularly for those with sever disabilities therefore if they have something physical which they can touch or press etc it plays a key part in the sense of achievement.

It also ensures the user understands cause and effects more easily, as when the press etc the object it will make a sound enabling them to make the connection, rather then software which may enable them to make sounds by moving their arms however because they are not touching anything physical they do not make the connection between their movement and the sound.

A physical object also adds another sense to the experience as it enables the user to be tactile.

User Experience Workshop

A good product must be:

  • Fun
  • Pleasurable
  • Provocative
  • Understood
  • User Friendly
  • Offers the user something or an experience.
  • Clear and Easy to use
  • Valuable
  • Gets repeated use (not a one time thing)

What is the value?

  • Is there a need?
  • What is your approach
  • What are the benefits
  • Is there competition.
The need for a product does not have to monetary, it could be cultural, social, ethical, promotional or that you think your audience just need to be moved.
Jesse James Garrett
The Elements of User Experience
Dan Saffer
Designing for Interaction
We consume more media then there are hours in the day.
Think about Design
Who is the product for?
Carry out interactive research on real users
Create Personas (know your audience)
Test your product
Understand your users
Collect your findings
What is your users relationship to media, How do they use it? When? How often?
Is there a market for your work?
What is your product like to use?
Audiences want personalisation, they want connection with the artist, humanisation.
  • Gesture
  • Genre
  • Aesthetics
Persona’s
A description of a user, represents a typical person in your user group, includes:
  • Background – age, gender, profession, family, home, lifestyle.
  • Relationship to – Media, technology.
  • Motivations – Interests, attitude, what does the user want to achieve, goals aspirations.
  • Interaction – What is the call to action? What is the trigger?
Convergence is the future. People want an experience, something which will enhance their life.
NABC – Needs, Approach, Benefit, Competition.
Competition – Know about them, you may work with them not against them, association.
Interactive Medias

The Reactable


Challenges the user, what is real and what is not?

Interactive Music Wall

 

Haptic, uses gesture.

Invisiball

Multiplayer

Crossing sport with music

Soundbeam


Ultra sonic Sensor

Uses gesture

Biophillia

Has a helper if you get lost or stuck

Matrix

Simple, but moving and Emotive

Always sounds nice making it rewarding.

 

More on Human Centred Design & User Centred Design

David Jones – Art Management

Why Do Arts?

  • To engage people
  • A love for it
  • Spread a message
  • Expression
  • Participation
  • Fun
  • Enjoyment

 

Why Do Business?

  • Profit
  • Legalities
  • Commercial
  • Marketing

 

Philanthropy – Giving money to an organisation with no expectation of monetary return.

Sponsorship –

Commercial – Deal between 2 parties, more for business, a tool to make a business more profitable.

Characteristics – Exchange of benefit, Both parties must feel it is worth the exchange, negotiations, deliverable, do what you say you will, reputation.

 

SMART – Specific, Mesurable, Attainable, Realistic & time scale.

 

Hard                                                                                                                                                                          Soft

Sponsorship > Cause Related Marketing > Corporate Social Responsibility > Corporate Philanthropy

 

The person who has the cheque book is not always the one who has influence E.g It could be wife, mother in law etc that like festivals etc, find out the MOTIVATOR.

 

Motivators 

  • Corporate image – perception
  • Entertainment – internal, corporate events
  • Reaching target customers – participation
  • Association
  • Employee Relations
  • Emerging Markets – New Products
  • Staff Recruitment – Team building days
  • Staff Retention – Chill out day, motivation
  • Celebrate Success/milestone of business
  • Public Relations
  • Civic Pride/National Pride
  • Research and Development
  • Memorial
  • Rewarding Suppliers
  • Increase Footfall
  • Personal Pleasure (CEO)
  • Historical Sponsorship of the Arts

 

Moral Agenda of Sponsorship

  • Tesco Saga Stage – In the Armadillo building in Cardiff.
  • The future of Sponsor

 

How to Find Sponsor’s

  • Keep up to date with current media
  • Read specialist journals
  • Study Government Records (Eg. Department of Education)
  • Business Clubs eg. Football Clubs, Sailing Clubs etc.
  • Reference Books

 

Cultivating

  • Business Hub – Government
  • Emerging markets – Asia, China etc.

 

Super Clubbing

Sponsorship Proposals – Offer 3 different levels – Top end, Middle end and Lower end. The top end includes more the lower end includes less, creates momentum and competition between competitors.

 

Pricing

Always compare, ring up and ask!

 

Who to Speak to:

  • Ring business and ask for marketing or PR Department *Do not sell your proposal over the phone.*
  • March/April is a good time to approach businesses as it is the end of the financial year.
  • Find out who is the person to direct proposals too.
  • Are there deadlines?
  • Topics of Preference eg. Carbon footprint.
  • Arrange a meeting

 

How to Compose a Proposal Letter:

  • Start letter with a name, ring and find out who to address the letter to.
  • To the point, who you are, what you do.
  • What are your aims (bullet point, easy to read) your aims are their aims.
  • Define yourself as ‘Creative Director’, you are then seen as an equal, high up, you mean business
  • Track record – If you dont have a record talk about aspirations, what you can do. Other Sponsorship, If none talk about other companies you are talk to.
  • Benefits – Talk their language, something they can relate to and understand, the profit for them
  • The Project – Aims (bullet point), Compliment what they have said as their aims, what the sponsorship money will go towards.
  • Timeline – Gantt Chart, What, where when.
  • Consumer Analysis
  • Promotion
  • Hospitality
  • Employee benefits
  • Media.
  • Summaries
  • Contact details.