FAQs

  • Music-thanatology is a contemplative practice with clinical applications. It can be valuable for patients of any age, hearing capacity, level of awareness, or spiritual identity.

    A referral for a music-thanatology vigil is appropriate when patients have a DNR (do not resuscitate) or similar admitting status, and are: processing news of a terminal diagnosis; experiencing emotions such as anxiety, depression, anger or loneliness; in physiological, interior or spiritual pain; sleep deprived; nauseated; morphine intolerant; and also during removal from life support. This practice is offered as a component of supportive end-of-life care.

  • The harp is the instrument of choice for many reasons. Briefly, it is polyphonic, meaning that many notes can sound at once, which is necessary for creating beneficial textures and harmonies.

    Long strings produce deep, warm and resonant melting tones, creating a body of sound that gradually dissolves, and is not invasive to vulnerable patients. The harp is easily transported, and can be played in small spaces.

  • The word thanatology derives from Greek mythology, where Thanatos, was imaged as the god of death. Thanatology refers to the field of death and dying.

    Music-thanatology commenced forty years ago, and coincided with the birth and development of palliative medicine, as well as the various English and American hospice movements. The inspiration came from the monastic medicine practiced by the monks of Cluny France during the 11th century. Their devotion to the care of the dying cultivated an awareness that music has a capacity to comfort body, mind, and spirit.

  • The music thanatologist begins with a short period of silence. Then focusing on the breath of the patient, they synchronize the music with the patient’s respiration. Often the rate will lower and the person receiving the music will fall into a deep sleep during or after a visit. Anxiety and agitation can be lessened, and many patients require less opiate medication following a vigil. Each person in attendance may benefit from this musical expression of care. A music session is free of negative side effects.

  • Yes. Remote music sessions can also be effective in calming the nervous system of patients, loved ones, and staff.

  • I offer a sliding scale. Donations allow me to provide music sessions for the underserved.

End-of-Life Resources

  • Till The Last

    Virginia Chang, Ph.D.

    Till the Last provides end-of-life doula services for those thinking about or approaching death. We will support you and your family and loved ones with professional and individualized emotional, spiritual, and physical care.

    Visit Website

  • Death Differently

    Death Differently is cinematic education on innovations in death care featuring death doulas, hospice workers, alternative death advocates, music thanatologists, green burial funeral directors, and many others.

    Learn More
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Articles

Hollis, Jennifer. "Songs of Transition." NY Times (December 13, 2015)

Hollis, Jennifer. "Providing the Soundtrack for Life's Last Moments." NY Times. (August 2, 2015) 

Books

Cox, Hellen and Roberts, Peter. The Harp and the Ferryman. Michelle Anderson Publishing, (Melbourne, 2013)

Hollis, Jennifer L. Music at the End of Life. Praeger (Santa Barbara, 2010),

Franz, Jane and LaForge, Sandra. From Behind the Harp: Music in End of Life Care. HarpStrung Press (Missoula, 2015)

Documentaries

“From Music Into Silence,” 2019. A film by Farshid Akhlaghi and Sammi Ghafari featuring the work of music-thanatologist Peter Roberts.

"The Gift - The Chalice of Repose Project for ABC Nightline with Ted Koppel," 1996. Re-released as DVD for Pleroma Press in 2009.

End-of-Life Services

  • Catharine’s music supports patients and families to experience the dying process as a natural passage. Remote or in-person sessions available.

  • As an ordained interfaith minister, Catharine offers companioning and compassion while holding space for end-of-life individuals and their families.

  • Contemplative music is useful in calming both mind and body - inviting peace and creating space for meditation and reflection.

  • Catharine is available for a custom therapeutic experience for you and your guests. At your home or other event space.

  • Catharine is core faculty with the Art of Dying Institute. She is available for one-on-one instruction or end-of-life workshops.

  • Catharine’s experience at the bedside of dying individuals informs her presence as a climate activist. She offers music in natural settings to soothe our dying planet.