Context

A range of outdoor musical instruments from Percussion Play was used to create a musical pavilion at The Thomas Centre, an autism-friendly family holiday destination in Lincolnshire.

This unique setting accommodates families and groups with children and adults who have Autism, Asperger's, ADHD, Tourette's, or other complex and sensory needs, such as Cerebral Palsy. Once a small, redundant farm, this five-star location now features barns that provide ample space for families to enjoy a variety of activities, including go-karting, sensory rooms, as well as woodland walks and outdoor music.

Project detail

Visitors to Centre can enjoy making music on newly-installed outdoor instruments from Percussion Play. A pergola area has been created at the edge of the Centre's to serve as the 'music space.' The selected instruments are designed to provide an engaging activity for the whole family. Lizzie Richards, the Business Manager, emphasises, "They're for everybody and anybody!".

Intergenerational play

The instruments' intergenerational aspect is crucial because the Centre aims to make activities inclusive for everyone in the family. Lizzie remarked, "I just saw a three-year-old playing the chimes and a 70-year-old on the drum! It's really important for our families to have sensory experiences, and these instruments are perfect for that!"

Products supplied

Colour played a vital role for Lizzie when selecting the instruments, leading her to choose the rainbow-coloured Calypso Chimes, which are particularly popular among younger children. In addition to the chimes, they incorporated the Duo xylophone, an innovative instrument designed for two people to interact and create music together without the need to look directly at each other. This design allows them to focus entirely on the auditory experience in a comfortable and personal space. The Duo features an ergonomic curved design that makes it easier for individuals with limited mobility or wheelchair users to reach all the notes.

Lizzie and her team recognised the importance of selecting instruments that could be played by individuals with motor skill challenges. They chose the Cyclone and the Large Babel Drum neither instrument requires the player to hold onto anything while playing. The Cyclone produces the sound of rain with a simple push, while the Babel Drum can be played easily with the hands.

The Babel Drum held significant meaning for Lizzie and The Thomas Centre, as it was installed in memory of one of the Centre's founders - Lizzie's father, Richard Crean. The drum is engraved with the phrase, "Make as much noise as you want," which reflects both the motto of the Centre and Richard's words to visitors.

Today, children, carers, and parents are encouraged to make as much noise as they want - something Richard would have been delighted to see.

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