Dear colleagues of the global music therapy community,
Dear Congress participants,
Welcome to the 18th World Congress of Music Therapy!
On behalf of the World Federation of Music Therapy (WFMT), the three Italian Porfessional Association of Music Therapy, together with the Organizing Committee, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to Bologna, a vibrant city of culture, dialogue, and innovation, for the 18th World Congress of Music Therapy, taking place from July 7th to 12th, 2026.
This Congress is the most important international event in our profession and a very special moment for our global community. In just a few weeks, colleagues from all over the world will come together to share research, clinical experiences, and professional practice, while exploring how music therapy can foster meaningful human connections, respect both individual and community identities, and respond to the complexity of a constantly evolving world.
On behalf of the World Federation of Music Therapy, the Italian Association of Music Therapy (AIM), the Italian Federation of Music Therapy (FIM) and Punto di Svolta – Music Therapy Professional Association (PDS), we are pleased to welcome you to Bologna, vibrant heart of culture and dialogue, for the 18th World Congress of Music Therapy from July 7 – July 12, 2026 “Connecting Borders. Creating Networks and Enhancing Identities through Music Therapy.”
This event represents a unique opportunity to reflect together on how music therapy can unite diverse worlds, build connections, and break down barriers. It will be a moment to explore how music therapy can contribute to the creation of deep bonds, respecting both individual and community identity values, and the complexity of a constantly evolving world.
Cultural borders
Music Therapy in a Global and Cultural Context
We will examine how local musical traditions and practices can enrich the landscape of music therapy in an increasingly interconnected world. Listening, inclusion, understanding, and embracing diversity will serve as cornerstones for fostering approaches that respect cultural variety, ethics, and human rights.
Interdisciplinary borders
Networks, Relationships, and Multidisciplinary Work
We will highlight the collaboration between music therapists and other professional figures. By rethinking the borders between distinct disciplines, we will emphasize the experiences of teams that promote integrated interdisciplinary and multiprofessional approaches. Guided by ethical and professional standards, the team can foster dialogues and reflections that place the person at the center.
Personal and interpersonal borders
Music Therapy, Identity, and Relationships
We will delve into the role of music therapy in recovering of personal identity within preventive, therapeutic, and rehabilitative contexts. It will be an opportunity to explore the dynamics of the relationship between music therapists and clients, as well as among colleagues, focusing on: the therapeutic alliance; the perception and definition of the physical and mental spaces of the music therapy setting; the appropriate proximity to others; the body as a boundary to be respected, revitalized, and valued.
This congress will serve as a vibrant meeting point to exchange practices, research, and visions, where the openness to embrace new perspectives and the constant spirit of inquiry will be key to shaping the future of music therapy in a complex and interconnected world.
