Remembering our dear colleague, Alan Rudkin
Remembering our dear colleague, Alan Rudkin
We wanted to share a few words about our dear colleague, Alan Rudkin, who sadly passed away recently. Charismatic; creative; joyous; full of love; passionate about people and music. These are just a few of the many words that we associate with Alan, a much loved and dear colleague who will be truly missed by all who had the privilege and pleasure to know and work alongside him.
Alan began his training within the first cohort on the Manchester base of the Nordoff and Robbins Master of Music Therapy training programme in 2008. After graduating in 2011 he joined the Nordoff and Robbins music therapy team, and as one of only two music therapists working in Yorkshire, he helped to establish music therapy in this area, sowing seeds that have since gone on to flourish into long standing music therapy projects with organisations in the region.
In addition to establishing and delivering music therapy sessions in a number of partnerships (including Horizon Healthcare Homes for adults with learning disabilities, Dewsbury District Hospital neurological ward, Second Chance Headway and the Kirkwood Hospice), Alan was also promoted to managing and supporting other music therapists and acting as a clinical supervisor. His ability to put people at ease through his friendly, light, humour-enriched and always ready to help approach, was celebrated, enjoyed and valued by all his colleagues.
There’s always laughter and joy when Alan’s here.
What was always noticeable to his colleagues on hearing examples of his work was his outstanding musicianship (particularly as a pianist and composer) and his ability to notice, feel and create beauty within music, engaging and inspiring his clients to move towards beauty within their musical collaborations. From composing irresistible songs inspired by their music and gestures – to bringing more connection, coherence and flow into each interaction with those whose ability to experience coherence and flow was limited by their complexities or illness.
Alan’s contribution to each precious moment he spent with his clients was invaluable. Whether working with individuals or large groups, such as the Kirkwood Chorus, Alan was equally comfortable in helping to inspire, motivate and develop the potential in each client’s musical contributions, all of whom will miss Alan and their special shared musical journeys. Alan’s legacy will continue inspiring the next generation of music therapy students and professionals and we shall continue using video recordings of his music therapy work within training as a tribute to his contribution to the history and heritage of Nordoff and Robbins.
Alan Rudkin, forever in our hearts.
