Introduction:

Integral training is one of the guiding principles of the University of Antioquia medical school programs. Such academic programs include in their curriculum the strategy called ‘flexible component’. It provides a variety of courses for students to choose according to their preferences and talents. One of these options is the musical training also offered as an extracurricular activity. This research study has the aim to analyze the influence of musical practice in the training of medical students of this university.

Subjects and methods:

This was a qualitative study in which interviews with students, teachers and graduates involved in musical activities were performed. The rock, pop, tropical, ropes bands and pre-band group were included. Also, members of the Cultural Curriculum committees and key people of the medical education department participated in the interviews.

Results:

As a result of the qualitative analysis, we found that respondents consider that musical practices strengthen skills for personal and professional development. They recognized benefits from the relation between music and the body for their well being, increase their cognitive skills, promotes recreational activities and interaction with peers from different cultures. Participants expressed that musical practice helps them to strength communication with patients, and facilitate their medical practice in general.

Conclusions:

Musical practices at University of Antioquia medical school are intentional spaces that favor interpersonal relationships, teamwork and enhances the capabilities of interaction with patients.

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