This experiential cpd workshop, facilitated by Jon Blend, introduces Lifemusic, an improvisatory approach to aware music –making that fits well within a gestalt framework. Founded by author/ composer/ senior music therapist Rod Paton Lifemusic offers a means of therapeutic self-expression adaptable for use with groups or individuals in a variety of settings. The approach has four precepts: everyone is musical; there are no ‘wrong’ notes; every sound carries meaning; music –making requires trust. We will experiment as a group using voices and simple ‘instant access’ instruments in embodied ways expressing ourselves dialogically in the moment, exploring whole and part phenomena, sound and silence. Our aim is to build communitas, enhance our personal agency and develop our capacity to attune and respond flexibly to each other and to explore elements of dissonance and uncertainty. Many counsellors and therapists report experiencing aliveness, enjoyment and wellbeing through taking part. The emphasis will be on learning through doing, followed by processing time. Clinical vignettes taken from Jon’s practice and group ‘musicking’ experiments from Violet Oaklander’s teaching help illustrate and ground Lifemusic as a therapeutic tool suitable for use in therapy with individuals, groups and families. All instruments provided, no knowledge/ experience of musicianship required.