Stories

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Jada’s story

Jada is sixteen, and has Down Syndrome and is autistic. Music therapy sessions offered a safe space where she could express herself freely - helping to support her emotional regulation and concentration, as well as her motivation to engage in other things.

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A child holds a beater above a xylophone instrument atop a table.

All Autism Brain injury and neurological Dementia and older age Fundraising partners Learning difficulties Life circumstances and grief Medical and life-limiting illness Mental health Music therapy partners Our clients Our team

A music book sits open during a music therapy session.

Brydie’s story

Music therapy sessions gave Brydie, who lived with dementia, a place to connect with others and rediscover her sociable nature.

Pieces of paper sit on top of a keyboard. The first contains musical notes, with "Rise Up" written at the top. Underneath is a lyric sheet, with the first line reading "We're sharing a Christmas".

Oliver’s story

Oliver is a smiley four year old who has cerebral palsy. He appeared to enjoy music, so, he began music therapy at nursery in the hope that it would help him to flourish.

The Riverbrae School Choir

The Riverbrae School Choir welcomes all pupils at the school, and provides a safe space where they can express themselves through music.

Ruby’s story

Aged only 14, Ruby was sectioned under the Mental Health Act. Life was still really difficult after being discharged, and music therapy therapy gave her a safe space, when she needed it most.

During music therapy, a pair of hands holds up and play an electric guitar.

Harry’s story

Music therapy is helping Harry, who has learning difficulties and complex needs, to maintain his focus and grow in confidence.

Erol sings passionately during a music therapy session with Oli

Erol’s story

Music provides a space for Erol, who is living with an acquired brain injury, to connect and collaborate with others.

Stephen sits behind a drum during a music therapy session with Kate

Stephen’s story

Living with dementia affects how Stephen engages with people and the world around him. Music provides him with a space to connect, and a rare opportunity to take the lead.

Alfie’s story

Music therapy has helped nine-year-old Alfie, who is autistic, to find ways to work collectively with others.

Jackson vocalises with music therapist Kate during a music therapy session.

Jackson’s story

With limited ways to communicate, moments of closeness and connection may be quite rare for Jackson. But through music, he is heard.

Two people play the drum and tambourine during a music therapy session at NELFT Memory Clinic, one of our partner organisations.

Edward’s story

Music therapy has given Edward, who has Down’s Syndrome and dementia, a space to re-embrace his outgoing nature, and connect with others.

A young client sits down to play music on the piano as they take part in music therapy at one of our partner organisations

Lucas’ story

Music therapy provides a safe space for Lucas, who has autism and ADHD, to express himself and connect with others.

Soundwaves

Soundwaves Art Foundation has worked with some of the world's leading musicians to create signed art work and handwritten lyrics to raise money for our vital music therapy services.

Ray plays the guitar, as he sings his song 'If I could turn the clock back' with Mark King.

Ray’s story

In 2022, Ray received a sudden diagnosis of incurable stomach cancer. Music therapy and songwriting helped him to reflect on his life.

A young client gets ready to make music using a symbol, as they take part in music therapy with a group.

Emmie’s story

For four-year-old Emmie, music therapy has helped to ease her anxiety. She embraces her autonomy, leading musical sessions with confidence.

A music therapist sits down to play music on the acoustic guitar, during a group music therapy session

Scott’s story

Singer-songwriter and guitarist Scott has experienced financial hardship. In music therapy he can use his natural talent, and record and produce his work.