A MUSIC studio is equipped to thrive as a centre of musical creativity thanks to a vital new acquisition.

The Old Forge Studio, in Back Road, Wenhaston, has established itself as a permanent base for people with learning disabilities and special educational needs to create music using multi-sensory equipment.

Until this week, owners Mike and Jana Rowland regularly visited Aled Jones at his home near Debenham to play and record music – but now the 27-year-old can utilise the instruments and electronics of the fully equipped studio, thanks to the installation of a wheelchair ramp.

The Rowlands are now able to combine their regular outreach services, to local schools and centres, with multi-sensory production in their own studio. Their One Feather Project encourages making music through diversity for a mainstream market – something Mr Jones, who has incomplete quadriplegia following a road accident in 2001, is achieving through his talent for the Soundbeam, which converts physical movements into sound. His mother Denny said: “He has always been keen on music and I think the rhythm has stayed with him.

“Because his legs are stronger than his arms, he is able to use them to activate the Soundbeam.

“Aled is in a rather large wheelchair and we couldn’t get into the studio before. Coming here is so much better with everything set up.”

Mr Jones has also performed in Europe with Mr and Mrs Rowland, who have many years of composing and recording experience.

Mr Rowland said: “I have seen music aid people’s rehabilitation on more than a few occasions. We hope to market the music people create here through the One Feather Project.” To find out more visit www.ambientclassical.com or call the studio on 01502 478446 and leave a message