Recent programme reports from Italy have highlighted encouraging outcomes from two adult Rhythm2Recovery-based programmes delivered across the Puglia region between 2025 and 2026.
The programmes were facilitated by Vincenzo Cantatore from Tamborey, using Rhythm2Recovery and VMC Drum Circle approaches across two adult settings: Ser.D. GAP Service Andria, supporting people with gambling addiction, and Liberta da Coltivare at Trani Prison.
Across both settings, 25 sessions were delivered, with programme reports documenting positive changes in emotional regulation, social connection, self-esteem, confidence and behaviour regulation.
Creating measurable change
The adult programmes showed encouraging results across a range of social and emotional outcomes.
Participants at the GAP Service Andria programme reported improvements in life satisfaction, confidence in the future, and reduced anxiety, anger and sadness following the programme. Before the programme, no participants scored highly for life satisfaction, while after the programme, three out of five participants scored highly. Confidence in the future also improved, with fewer participants reporting low confidence after completing the programme.
Across both settings, programme reports also noted significant improvement in managing anxiety, anger and sadness. Participants described feeling more connected, more confident, and better able to understand and express their emotions.
Supporting connection through rhythm
One of the key strengths of rhythm-based group work is its ability to create connection in settings where trust, safety and communication can be difficult to establish.
In the Trani Prison programme, participants reflected on the importance of being able to connect with others in a more positive and human way.
One participant shared:
“Outside, you get to choose who you connect with, and this helped with that connection.”
Another reflected:
“It felt like getting your humanity back.”
These reflections speak to the potential of rhythm-based group programmes to support not only emotional expression, but also dignity, belonging and social reconnection.
Building confidence and emotional awareness
Participants also reported improvements in self-awareness and confidence.
One GAP Service participant shared:
“I used to think I had to be happy all the time. Now I know it’s okay to feel sad. My life is more balanced.”
Another participant reflected:
“This programme gave me a better understanding of my own emotions. I learnt something from everyone, even people who were very different from me.”
These reflections align strongly with the Rhythm2Recovery model, which combines experiential rhythm-based activities with reflective discussion to support emotional regulation, communication, connection and resilience.
A growing evidence base
The outcomes from these adult programmes add to the growing body of Rhythm2Recovery practice-based evidence across community, education, justice, addiction and therapeutic settings.
While each group and setting is different, these reports demonstrate the value of structured rhythm-based programmes in supporting people to build confidence, strengthen social connection and develop practical emotional regulation skills.
We are grateful to Vincenzo Cantatore and Tamborey for their work in delivering and documenting these programmes, and for continuing to expand Rhythm2Recovery practice across Italy.
Programme reports by Vincenzo Cantatore, Tamborey, in collaboration with ASL BT GAP Service Andria, Terre Solidali Impresa Sociale S.r.l., and Macaranga APS. Funded by GAP ASL BT, PRAP Puglia Region and Casillo Foundation.