{
  "abstract": "Background Therapeutic harp playing is an emerging modality in palliative care, using live acoustic music to support individuals physically, emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually. Rooted in intention, presence, and resonance, it aligns with holistic hospice values. The harp’s harmonic richness allows personalised tone application, enabling therapeutic harpists to meet individuals ‘where they are’ with gentle yet profound support. Growing experiential evidence suggests live harp music reduces anxiety, eases physical discomfort, and fosters deep relaxation and spiritual peace at end of life.Aim To explore how personalised therapeutic harp music with resonant tone application supports patients and carers in hospice settings across emotional, physical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions, in both inpatient wards and the outpatient vitality centre.Method 107 hours of live therapeutic harp music sessions, 135 one-to-one sessions and 70 group sessions (including yoga and massage relaxation) were offered to patients and carers. Pre- and post-session reflective questioning and/or non-verbal observational assessments were used to gauge physical and emotional states. Session notes captured qualitative impressions of engagement, mood, and symptomatic responses.Results Participants consistently reported increased relaxation. Outcomes included pain relief, emotional release, steadier and deeper breathing, reduced restlessness and agitation, and enhanced spiritual peace and presence. Carers noted deeper connection with their own emotions and with their loved ones. Staff observed improved patient mood, reduced tension, and calmer ward atmospheres during sessions.Conclusion Therapeutic harp offers a dynamic, non-invasive form of care in hospice environments. Through resonant tone application and responsive live playing, harpists can provide person-centred support that complements clinical care. The practice holds potential for broader adoption in palliative and supportive settings. Developing research and training infrastructure could help standardise practice and expand understanding of long-term benefits.",
  "authors": [
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "St Rocco’s Hospice, Warrington, UK"
      ],
      "name": "Nicola Ryder"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "St Rocco’s Hospice, Warrington, UK"
      ],
      "name": "Sui Yiu Leung"
    }
  ],
  "title": "P-32 The benefits of harp therapy in a hospice setting",
  "uid": "d46c3645-d945-5d1d-9c68-d8e07fd0356a"
}