Despite evidence of music’s positive impact on wellbeing, the UN’s Pact for the Future highlights only sport as impactful in this area. This suggests disparities in how research influences policy, leaving music undervalued. Our session bridges this gap by showcasing how sports psychology, particularly through Self-Determination Theory (SDT), translates to the music sector. SDT provides a universal framework to evaluate wellbeing and design practices that benefit practitioners and audiences alike. Participants will explore how SDT can reshape creative approaches in small group discussions and share collective insights in a final plenary. Join us to explore ways of advocating for recognition of music’s rightful place in fostering wellbeing and driving cultural policy.