A new hub, offering sensory and music sessions has launched in Barmouth.
A not-for-profit organisation known as Music Hub Cerdd, will help people of all ages improve their wellbeing through the language of music and play.
The state-of-the-art specially designed space means that anyone who loves music, including those with special educational needs, can enjoy the facility.
Run by husband and wife team Mike and Jana Rowland, sessions can be tailored to group or individual needs, and help in different ways – creating ideas and enabling choice, stimulating memory, communication, relaxation and fun.
Known across the UK and internationally for their composing and musical talents, Mike and Jana have worked for many years with children and adults with special educational needs using therapeutic music as a way of enhancing others’ lives.
Jana said: “Music is our first language! It is truly incredible that everyone from all ages, backgrounds and abilities can connect to it and take what they want and need from it to enhance their own wellbeing.
“Music embraces, encourages, empowers and enlivens. Our sensory room is a specially designed space with lights, colours, sounds, musical instruments and sensory play objects including bubble tube and sound beam. It offers specific benefits, nurtures self worth, expression and purpose, which are so valuable to people’s lives.”
The hub aims to help people of all ages, from babies to older people; those with physical and sensory needs (e.g. visual impairment or cerebral palsy); those with social and emotional needs (e.g. loneliness and isolation); mental health (e.g. stress, anxiety or dementia); communication and interaction needs (e.g. autism, speech and language); cognition, learning and behavioural challenges.
Mike said: “Week on week we are able to see how our creative friends change and grow.
“Listening to a recording of one child’s music, I was reflecting on how he has changed from twiddling buttons with no attention to now playing the piano for up to nine minutes – a real achievement – and without speaking at all during playing.
“Another was running around constantly and now chills out and engages in play, is able to give eye contact and communicates well.
“There is contentment. All have achieved so much.”
Jana added: “As a charity, we simply want to share our love of music so others can benefit.
“If you’re not sure if its right for you, someone you care for and/or a loved one, get in touch and we can discuss what you may be looking for.”
Music Hub Cerdd is based at Bendi-Gedig soft play centre in Barmouth.