Hello, Hello to Everyone, How Are You Today?

In my work as a Registered Music Therapist, one of the simplest yet most powerful activities I use is the hello song. Hello songs are more than just a way to start a session, they set the tone for everything that follows.

Whether I’m working with children, adults, or older adults, greeting each person through music is an invitation that says:

You are welcome here.

You are seen.

This is a safe space.

Check out SBMT Director Megan’s new hello song:

Starting a session can sometimes feel daunting, especially for people who are experiencing anxiety, unfamiliar environments, or communication challenges. A hello song creates a predictable, warm routine that helps ease those feelings.

When I sing a hello song, I’m doing more than offering a greeting. I’m saying “I see you, and you matter in this space.”

This moment of connection is often when I notice how someone is feeling, are they calm, excited, tired, or unsure? A familiar melody can quickly bring comfort and readiness to participate.

Research and practice have shown that hello songs support:

Routine and Structure: The same opening each time signals that it’s time for music therapy. Predictability builds trust and reduces anxiety.

Social Connection: Including a client’s name or inviting them to wave or sing along supports communication and interaction.

Emotional Regulation: A warm welcome can help clients feel secure and ready to engage.

Cogntive and Communication Skill Development: Hello songs can target goals like turn-taking, attention, vocalizing, and even practicing speech sounds.

I often tailor my hello songs to each group or individual. Sometimes it’s a hello song that greets everyone individually, other times it’s a previously agreed upon preferred song by the group.

No matter what, I love that this moment creates a sense of belonging. It’s a chance to pause, connect, and say:“Here we are together. Let’s make music.”

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Georgia is a Registered Music Therapist and joined the Sounding Board team in 2021. A proficient vocalist and guitarist, she is passionate about facilitating personalized, empowering and collaborative music therapy experiences

Georgia has experience working in the community with disabled and neurodiverse adults and children, in neuro-rehabilitation, acute adult and paediatric hospitals, in pediatric oncology, and supporting adults with lived experiences of homelessness and people with complex mental health needs.