Harry’s story

Music therapy is helping Harry to maintain his focus and grow in confidence.

Harry is 25 years old. He attends Rose Road Association, a charity in Southampton that supports young adults with physical disabilities, learning difficulties, and complex needs. He began music therapy at the service in early 2023, with our music therapist Kathryn. And since then, he has attended individual sessions as well as group sessions with his peers.

Harry has learning difficulties and complex needs. This includes cerebral palsy, visual impairments, as well as difficulties with balance and coordination. He is funny, bubbly, friendly, and a joy to be around. At times, Harry struggles with concentration. And sometimes high anxiety levels mean that he repeats questions and loses focus on the task at hand.

Music is a big part of Harry’s life at home. Together, Harry and his Mum often play songs from musicals. And he enjoys singing along to football and rugby anthems when he watches his favourite teams play live.

When Harry first began music therapy, he was very excited about the music instruments, and asked lots of questions about them. He struggled to stay focussed during sessions, and to concentrate on an activity for too long. In music therapy, Harry and Kathryn have specifically been working on maintaining Harry’s attention and focus levels. Using music to allow Harry to enjoy being in the moment and escape any worries that he may have.

Harry has been able to gain a sense of fun and freedom with less distraction in his music therapy sessions. He is able to focus on the present moment, and to express himself in a joyful way.

Kathryn, Harry’s music therapist

Since he first began music therapy, Harry’s focus has extended during improvisations with Kathryn, which have increased in length as time has gone on. His confidence to try new and different musical instruments has increased – he often shares his preferred instruments but shows courage to try everything.

Harry engages in musical games involving turn-taking, listening, responding, and leading. And over time, he has gradually become bolder in being the ‘leader’. Now he will shout out instructions, often laughing (and sharing his cheeky personality!).

Harry’s love of music is clear, and there’s no doubt that he enjoys sharing this with others. In the group sessions, Harry’s confidence encourages other service users to get involved. And in 2023, he even had a starring role in our Christmas music video, singing a solo line!