Name: Leon
Age: 14
Amber Service: AmberPlus
Leon, 14*, is blind, has stage 4 cerebral palsy and global developmental delay. He always looks forward to his AmberPlus sessions with music practitioner Steve Harper.
‘I was searching for additional activities for Leon outside of school,’ says Aga, Leon’s mother. ‘Given his complex disabilities, there is nothing in our local area that suits his needs. We felt he was left out completely. I reached out to Guide Dogs and they directed us towards The Amber Trust.’
Leon joined our AmberPlus scheme for children and young people aged 5–18, including those with additional disabilities. Children receive music sessions at home, which include the whole family as much as possible to encourage musical engagement outside of home visits.
Steve comes to our house to play music on so many different instruments,’ continues Aga. ‘These lessons give Leon a lot of excitement, as well as teaching him new skills. Leon learnt how to play on bells and can repeat a sequence of sounds following Steve’s instructions. He is exploring musical instruments with the use of his hands and feet and is less tactile-defensive. Steve has also managed to teach him a few words, which is amazing!’
Steve describes Leon as ‘bright, cheerful and ready for action’ during their sessions. ‘He will choose the activities we work on, but at some point during each visit we will always tap rhythms on the floor, drum together (Leon with his feet), vocalise, and choose, play and feel a range of percussion and melodic instruments.
‘Leon’s favourite activity is listening to and feeling the saxophone. There are lots of whoops of joy and excitement when I visit Leon – long may it continue.’
*Age correct at time of publishing
To support other children like Leon on their musical journey, please donate to The Amber Trust. Your support enables us to provide music opportunities to vision impaired children across the UK, including those with additional needs.