It is with sadness and deep respect that we honour the life and legacy of Dr. Barbara L. Wheeler, a leader, scholar, teacher, and advocate whose work has shaped the music therapy profession. Dr. Wheeler’s influence spanned clinical practice, education, research, and professional leadership.
Throughout her distinguished career, she held esteemed faculty positions in the United States at Montclair State University (1975-2000) and University of Louisville (2000-2011), as well as visiting professorships at several universities around the world. As a result, Barbara inspired generations of music therapists through her mentorship, teaching, and example. Her work and vision were instrumental in elevating music therapy as a rigorous, evidence-based profession dedicated to compassionate service and scholarly pursuit.
A prolific author and editor, Dr. Wheeler’s written work has become foundational to the profession with her most significant contributions including:
• Music Therapy Research in its third edition, which she edited with Kathleen Murphy.
• Clinical Training Guide for the Student Music Therapist co-authored with Donna W. Polen and Carol L. Shultis.
• Music Therapy Handbook, in its second edition and which she co-edited Michael Viega and Andeline dos Santos.
These works, along with among numerous articles and chapters, reflect her extraordinary commitment to advancing knowledge, strengthening clinical practice, and fostering thoughtful reflection on the role of music therapy.
Dr. Wheeler’s leadership enriched the profession internationally. She served as President of the American Music Therapy Association, contributed to the global discourse on education and professional standards, and was a guiding voice for emerging music therapists worldwide. Her passion for research helped cement its place as a critical pillar of professional practice, encouraging evidence-informed work that honours client experience and cultural diversity. She received accolades recognizing her lifetime of service, including awards from both the World Federation of Music Therapy and the American Music Therapy Association. Dr. Barbara Wheeler’s leadership and impact will continue to resonate through our profession for years to come.