Music can unlock something special in every child – a way to express feelings, build confidence and find joy. That belief is at the heart of Living Well Through Music, based at Griffin Studios near Lacock, a therapeutic music service created by music therapist Alphonso Archer, MA (HCPC Registered).
The service offers music therapy, creative music-making and therapeutic drumming for children, young people and adults – including those with autism, PMLD, sensory processing differences, long-term health conditions and emotional or mental health challenges.
The idea grew from Alphonso’s eight years of work at Venturers’ Academy in Bristol, a specialist school for children with autism. When the school opened in 2016 it had around 50 pupils; it now spans three sites and supports more than 250 children, all with a primary diagnosis of autism and an EHCP.
“During those years, I saw how music could unlock communication and emotional expression in ways that words sometimes could not,” said Alphonso. “I witnessed selectively mute children begin to sing, pupils who struggled to connect finding shared moments of joy through rhythm and sound, and young people building confidence through music that reflected their individual strengths.”
He set up a fully equipped music studio within the school, using everything from drums, pianos and guitars to iPads, Macs and recording tools. Students were encouraged to explore sound in sensory and creative ways, supporting both communication and emotional wellbeing. Some of the moments Alphonso witnessed were so transformative that they inspired him to complete a Master’s in Music Therapy and, later, to establish his own practice in Wiltshire.
Music has always been at the heart of Alphonso’s life. He grew up learning and performing in church, before studying formally and achieving grades on piano and guitar. He went on to teach piano, guitar, drums and ukulele privately for many years.
Music became even more personal in 2016 when Alphonso was diagnosed with prostate cancer. During his treatment and recovery, it became a vital source of strength and expression – deepening his belief in the power of music to heal and connect.
The Griffin Studios space offers a calm, sensory-friendly environment surrounded by nature. It features a wide range of acoustic and digital instruments, adaptive equipment and recording tools, allowing every session to be tailored to an individual’s pace, needs and sensory profile. No musical experience is needed to take part.
Living Well Through Music now offers one-to-one and small group therapy, creative music sessions, and therapeutic drumming to support confidence and emotional regulation. Alphonso also provides adapted music support for children with complex needs, and specialist sessions for adults living with cancer, trauma or long-term health conditions. He works with medical-legal clients, including those with acquired brain injuries, and can visit care homes or private homes where mobility is limited.
The studio also offers music tuition in piano, guitar, drums and music technology, delivered by Alphonso and selected associate teachers. Lessons focus on confidence and enjoyment, with the option to prepare for ABRSM, Trinity and Rockschool exams.
“I am a trauma-informed practitioner,” said Alphonso. “That means I work at the pace of the individual, ensuring the music provides emotional safety, grounding and space for expression. Every person is different, and music allows us to meet in a way that is human, respectful and empowering.”
Families and schools are warmly invited to get in touch to arrange an initial conversation or visit the studio. Living Well Through Music welcomes enquiries from across Wiltshire and the surrounding area.
