About
It all started with…
Grandad.
Jennifer witnessed the power of music as a young teen when her Grandad had his second stroke leaving him unable to speak or walk. It was Granny who asked her to bring her guitar to the hospital and sing his favorite song. As she sang, she watched the face of the grumpy old man she thought she knew, turn into the tears of a man who wanted a more meaningful connection.
That moment was the beginning of her journey to becoming…
a Music Therapist
Jennifer smiles when she says that her speaking career started in elementary school when she won her school district’s speaking contest. She recognized the power of a message and how it could transform thoughts and support new ideas. Also during these formative years, John Denver visited her school where he sang his music, shared the film of him traveling along the west coast, and shared the message of loving our land. Jennifer witnessed firsthand the power of imagery, message, and music. When they are all blended together, they become the perfect anchor to a moment never to be forgotten.
Her Work Today
Jennifer Buchanan is a Certified Music Therapist with over three decades of experience and the Founder and President of JB Music Therapy, an award-winning company whose team supports individuals and groups across the lifespan—from infancy to elder care—in medical, education, and workplace wellness settings. The organization delivers over 20,000 music therapy sessions each year. In recognition of this work, JBMT received the 2025 Patient Experience Award from the Health Quality Council of Alberta, celebrating its collaboration with interdisciplinary teams in acute care.
She is the author of multiple books, including Wellness, Wellplayed: The Power of a Playlist, written for those who want to make the biggest impact possible while getting the most out of life. Her work equips busy, mindful people with tools to engage with music in more meaningful and intentional ways. Jennifer is also a trusted advisor to media across North America on topics related to music, health, and human connection. Jennifer has been invited to inform Health Canada and the Office of the Governor General on the field of music therapy and its measurable impact across diverse sectors seeking innovative ways to improve quality of life and care.
As the former Executive Director and Past President of the Canadian Association of Music Therapists, she played a central role in shaping national standards and advancing the profession. Today, she continues to lead as a Director at the National Music Centre and an Affiliate Member of the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research & Education, where she champions music’s role in healing, resilience, and recovery. She is also spearheading the development of Canada’s first music therapy-informed digital health platform, designed to empower mental health and workplace wellbeing. Jennifer has received the two most prestigious awards in Canadian music therapy—the Norma Sharpe Award for lifetime achievement and the Frani Award, named after her mentor and the pioneer of music therapy in Canada.
Her MISSION is Simple
To empower and connect every person to their best self, regardless of age, ability, circumstances, or musical background.
Do you already have the Wellness, Wellplayed Book?
The perfect accompaniment to help you work through every exercise with best results.
