The Institute for Music and Neurologic Function Marks Its 30th Anniversary
Celebrating Three Decades of Music and Healing
The Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) is proud to mark its 30th year of advancing the clinical use of music to support neurologic health, recovery, and quality of life for individuals living with cognitive, physical, and emotional challenges.
Founded in 1995 by a team that included Oliver Sacks, MD, noted neurologist and author, and Concetta M. Tomaino, DA, MT-BC, a pioneer in the field of music therapy, the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) was established to bridge the gap between neuroscientific research and clinical music therapy practice. For three decades, IMNF has served as a leading resource for the development, application, and dissemination of evidence-based music interventions that address the needs of individuals with neurologic disorders, including dementia, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, and developmental disabilities.
“When Dr. Sacks and I helped found the IMNF, our shared goal was to deepen the scientific understanding of music’s role in neurologic health and translate that knowledge into effective, person-centered care,” said Dr. Tomaino, Executive Director and Co-Founder. “We are proud to continue that mission today through clinical services, education, research, and community outreach.”
Three Decades of Impact and Innovation
Since its founding, the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) has been at the forefront of advancing the field of music and neurologic health, including:
- Hosting the first major conference bringing together neuroscientists and music therapists in 2002, helping to establish the field of music and brain health research and advancing interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Leading research that advances policy and practice in music-brain health, including a seminal study in 1994, funded by the New York State Department of Health, which resulted in state recommendations that age-appropriate, personalized music be included in every skilled nursing home.
- Championing scalable models of music-based care, including IMNF’s signature program, MUSIC & MEMORY®, now used worldwide to bring personalized music to people living with dementia and other cognitive challenges.
- Advancing the role of technology in music-based care by working with leading technology developers to create scalable tools for practitioners and caregivers, including Vera, MedRhythms, SoundMind, Spiritune, and others, as well as working with instrument manufacturers, including REMO and Yamaha, to help develop products specifically designed for use in healthcare and rehabilitation settings.
- Raising public awareness for the healing power of music through film and media, including feature film, Alive Inside: A Story of Music and Memory, The Music Instinct: Science & Song (PBS), Musical Minds (PBS), Fast Forward, 60 Minutes, Brilliant Minds (NBC), and numerous other productions that have brought music and health into the public spotlight.
Throughout 2025, IMNF will be highlighting its ongoing programs and the growing body of research supporting the role of music in neurologic care.
2025 Music Has Power® Symposium and Awards Ceremony
IMNF’s 30th anniversary year will culminate with the 2025 Music Has Power® Symposium and Awards Ceremony, taking place on Wednesday, November 21, 2025, at the Times Center in New York City. This full-day gathering will bring together leading voices in neuroscience, clinical practice, the arts, and public health to explore the latest breakthroughs in music and brain health.
The afternoon symposium will feature expert presentations on music’s role in neurologic care, with sessions addressing dementia, stroke recovery, Parkinson’s disease, and more. The evening will include an awards ceremony and live musical performances honoring individuals who have made exceptional contributions to advancing the field.
This milestone event will celebrate three decades of IMNF’s leadership while looking ahead to the future of music-based care—highlighting new research, cross-sector collaborations, and scalable solutions for expanding access to music in healthcare. We hope you'll join us!
As we celebrate this milestone year, we remain committed to advancing the role of music in neurologic care and deepening its impact across communities. Thank you for being part of this journey - we look forward to sharing what’s next!
