A taxonomic framework of music-based intervention components to guide research: recommendations from the NIH U24 music research networks

Authors

• Sheri L. Robb, Indiana University
• Elizabeth Harman, Indiana University
• Debra S. Burns, College of Communication and Fine Arts
• Jeffery A. Dusek, UCI Health Affairs
• Julene K. Johnson, UCSF School of Medicine
• Samuel N. Rodgers-Melnick, University Hospitals Case Medical Center
• Kamal R. Chémali, University Hospitals Case Medical Center
• Joseph J. Schlesinger, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
• Mirian Ramirez, Indiana University
• Lynn Gumert, Drexel University
• Sarah Biedka, Drexel University
• Jannatul Khawsar, Drexel University
• Michael Kiley, Drexel University
• Joanne Loewy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
• Joke Bradt, Drexel University

Abstract

Background – As research on music and health expands across disciplines, inconsistent terminology limits communication, replication, and mechanistic discovery. The absence of a shared lexicon obscures comparisons across studies and hinders identification of the specific music-based intervention (MBI) components and mechanistic pathways responsible for change in health-related outcomes. Objective – To address this gap, a multidisciplinary working group representing four U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) U24 Music Research Networks developed and validated the Music-Based Intervention (MBI) Taxonomy. Methods – Using an iterative, expert consensus process, the working group developed an initial framework of MBI components, terms, and definitions. The draft taxonomy was subsequently validated, interrogated, and refined through a two-part systematic review of 200 studies, including 100 clinical MBI and 100 laboratory-based music studies, using a phased, iterative, consensus-based process. Results – The resulting taxonomy provides a hierarchical framework comprising seven core constructs of MBIs: Music Features; Person-Specific Music Factors; Engagement Mode; Music Delivery Factors; Social and Environmental Contexts; Music Selection; and Additional Non-Music Components. Across these constructs the taxonomy specifies components, subcomponents, recommended terminology, and definitions to support the conceptualization and description of mechanistic music research. Conclusion – The MBI Taxonomy aims to improve the consistency and transparency of MBI components, support mechanistic study conceptualization and design, and facilitate replication and cross-study synthesis. As a comprehensive meta-framework, it serves as a foundational tool to help overcome disciplinary silos and foster a more cohesive, rigorous body of mechanistic music research.

Publication Title

Frontiers in Psychology

Recommended Citation

Robb, S., Harman, E., Burns, D., Dusek, J., Johnson, J., Rodgers-Melnick, S., Chémali, K., Schlesinger, J., Ramirez, M., Gumert, L., Biedka, S., Khawsar, J., Kiley, M., Loewy, J., & Bradt, J. (2026). A taxonomic framework of music-based intervention components to guide research: recommendations from the NIH U24 music research networks. Frontiers in Psychology, 17 https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1876240