WICHITA, Kansas, June 16, 2008 – More Wichita hospital patients are finding out firsthand how music can help soothe their minds and strengthen their bodies.

She doesn’t have a medical degree, but Teresa Bachman is an instrument of healing. With her mountain dulcimer, she treats hospital patients with therapeutic music.

"Well, there are scientific studies now that they have proven that the music, the sound waves can affect our bodies,” said Backman. “Each little cell can dance to its own little tune, and the sound waves of soothing music can actually help boost the immune system.”

It can also reduce pain and help patients like Helen Piper relax.

"It's very soothing and very nice,” Piper said.

"When they start playing, over a very short period of time, it gets calm,” said Terry Steinbacher with the Wesley Coronary Care Unit. “It's quiet. The patients' blood pressure comes down. My staff works a lot more effectively.”

But not just any music will work. Teresa plays more upbeat songs for patients in recovery, slower music for those with chronic illness and she’s never offended if her audience dozes off.

"I was there for 20 minutes, and the patient fell asleep,” Backman said. “The daughter was so ecstatic because she hadn't slept in two days.”

And even while asleep or in a coma, Teresa says our bodies can respond to music – she’s seen it.

"He never opened his eyes, he never closed his mouth, but his foot was tapping to the rhythm of the music,” she said. “I was totally amazed.”

And so is the president of the Wesley Auxiliary, who is now funding a scholarship to recruit more music practitioners.

"The scholarship could train people for everyone, not just in this community, but throughout Kansas,” said Wesley Auxiliary President Maureen Bray.

Getting certified requires hours of classroom training and an internship. Music practitioners are used more widely on the east and west coasts, but hospitals and nursing homes in the heartland are starting to recognize their benefits.

If you’re interested in applying for a music practitioner scholarship, contact the Wesley Auxiliary at 316-962-2100.