The aim of this Master’s thesis is to explore how to integrate music therapy in the treatment of paediatric oncology patients. This is an empirical interpretivist study, using a phenomenological and hermeneutic approach, based on my 9th semester practical experience at the ambulatory chemotherapy unit at a public hospital in Peru. Through a thematic analysis of questionnaire-based interviews with caregivers, volunteers and staff members, the interviewees’ experiences of the impact of music therapy in this unit are studied. Followed by a heuristic analysis examining the connection between culture and music therapy.

The outcome of the thematic analysis presents three emergent themes describing music therapy having an impact on attention, enjoyment and relaxation. Between and during medical procedures, music therapy can provide a supportive distraction from the challenging environment. With active and receptive music therapy intervention, relaxation or musical activities can be created helping the child to better cope with the situation.

Through the heuristic analysis, the importance of self-reflection, cultural sensitivity and the therapist’s responsibility to respect, support and keep an openness to the personal-cultural-musical background of the patient, are presented. Multicultural music therapy is evolving due to international collaborations and more multicultural societies. Music and culture are both personal and phenomenon shared with others, therefore awareness of the therapist’s and the patient’s cultural background are needed. Nevertheless, it is essential to strive for a balance between cultural considerations and the spontaneous connectivity in the music, in music therapy.