Kenneth Aigen

Kenneth Aigen is a Professor and Director of Music Therapy at New York University's Steinhardt School, serving as Vice Chair for Faculty Affairs in the Music and Performing Arts Professions department. He holds a doctorate from NYU (1991) and previously served as Research Director and Co-Director of the Nordoff-Robbins Center for Music Therapy. His expertise spans clinical improvisation, autism research, and qualitative methodologies, with a focus on Nordoff-Robbins approaches. Aigen has authored influential books translated into multiple languages and received major awards including the Lindback Award and AMTA's Lifetime Achievement Award. He teaches advanced courses on music therapy theory and research, emphasizing contemporary frameworks like community and feminist-oriented practices. His research explores music's role in autism and developmental delays, bridging musicology with therapeutic goals.

• Education: Ph.D., New York University (1991)
• Professional Roles: Former President of the American Association for Music Therapy, Scientific Committee Chair of the Ninth World Congress of Music Therapy

Aigen's research integrates musicological analysis with clinical outcomes, investigating how musical elements address cognitive, emotional, and physical goals. His work on autism highlights music's role in everyday life for neurodivergent adults. He advocates for music-centered therapy prioritizing musical experience over verbal interpretation.

• Awards: NYU Teaching Excellence Award, AMTA Research & Publications Award

Teaching focuses on theory development, qualitative research design, and clinical supervision. He maintains an active performance career with Stella Blue's Band, blending professional music practice with academic work.