Because music therapy is used in so many different ways, there is no one typical approach. Music intended for relaxation should have about 70 to 80 beats per minute, similar to the heart rate. A faster beat may create tension. It should be low in pitch, since a high pitch also fosters tension. Volume should be kept low.
High volume can cause pain.
When used to reduce anxiety, music should have a slow, steady rhythm, a low pitch, liberal orchestration, and relaxing melodies. Instrumental selections are considered more effective than vocal music, since patients may focus on words and their meaning rather than relaxing with the music. The Tomatis Method. Treatments are delivered by a machine called the Electronic Ear. This device is intended to simulate the stages of listening development.