This article is divided into three parts. In Part I a brief description of a music therapy session will highlight some key features of a music therapy approach with children. The session will be used as a springboard for a short survey of some theoretical perspectives that underpin music therapy practice. Part II will outline the development of music therapy in the UK and the current range of work with children. Some evidence of music therapy's effective contribution to the development of the whole child will be drawn from published research and case material. Part III will place music therapy in wider social, musical and cultural contexts, outlining some contemporary challenges including closer collaboration with music educators and researchers.