NICU Harp Soothing Performance: A Non-Clinical Music Support Framework

Abstract This working paper introduces Harp Resonance Nesting (HRN), a non-clinical music support framework designed for live harp performance positioned outside the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) clinical workflow. HRN is intended for trained harp educators and musicians rather than licensed clinicians or music therapists. The framework provides fixed-protocol, non-contact acoustic support at 45–50 dB from a two-meter bedside distance during routine NICU periods such as feeding, parental visits, and rest windows. HRN is explicitly differentiated from music therapy and clinical intervention through fixed musical delivery, absence of patient assessment, and complete exclusion from medical decision-making or procedural coordination. The framework incorporates Taiwan-contextualized lullaby adaptations and a vibration-proxy plush toy held by parents to support sensory continuity without direct infant contact. No patient data are collected or reported. This publication presents a conceptual framework intended to support future musician-led feasibility pilots under administrative approval. Keywords: neonatal intensive care, harp music support, non-clinical music, acoustic nesting, musician positioning, Taiwan lullabies