Heartbeat recordings are a music therapy service that uses a patient’s heartbeat to create personalized songs for comfort, legacy, and coping. A music therapist records a patient’s heartbeat with a digital stethoscope and then may layer it with music, such as a favorite song or an original composition, with the heartbeat serving as the percussive beat. These unique recordings provide a lasting, meaningful connection for families with hospitalized children.
Audio Samples
Heartbeat Only
Heartbeat w/ Singing
Heartbeat w/ Music
Heartbeat w/ Music & Singing
How It Works
- Recording the heartbeat: A music therapist uses a digital stethoscope connected to a device like a laptop to record the patient’s heartbeat.
- Adding musical elements: This heartbeat “beat” is integrated with music that is meaningful to the patient and family. This could be:
- An existing song chosen by the family
- A new song written by the therapist
- Instrumental music or vocals added by the therapist or family member
- Final product: The result is a unique song that incorporates a part of the patient, offering a tangible and emotional keepsake.