Adem’s first pub gig!

Adem began music therapy at Sound Expression at just 9 years old with a focus on developing his social and communication skills through music.

Nine years on, he’s taken his drumming beyond the therapy room and onto the stage — performing his very first pub gig.

Supported by his music therapist Pete McDonald and Music Therapy Student Tom, Adem played at The Bayview Hotel Gladesville to an audience of around 70 people!

From working on social interaction within sessions to now performing in a live venue, connecting with an audience and contributing to a shared musical experience – Adem is not only participating in his community, but actively creating one through music.

We’ve also been working on flexibility — and Adem showed exactly that on the day. When an extra song was added, without rehearsal or prior planning, he rose to the challenge and played through with confidence.

Moments like this highlight what’s possible when we focus on strengths and build on individual abilities – this is what meaningful skills transfer can look like!

Adem, what an incredible achievement! Congratulations on your first pub gig — we look forward to many more to come!

Get to know Registered Music Therapist Pete McDonald.

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