Musicians´ Health and Performance 1st Nordic Conference

Transcription

THE NORTHERNMOST UNIVERSITY
of Technology in Scandinavia
MHPNC
Musicians´ Health and Performance
1st Nordic Conference 2013
Piteå, Sweden, 13-14 June 2013
Welcome to Acusticum, Piteå, for the first Nordic
Conference in music medicine. The Conference is
a new forum for researchers and clinicians, as well
as musicians and music teachers with a special
interest in Musicians´ Health and Performance
www.ltu.se/mhpnc2013
1
Contents
About the Organizers ....................................................................................................................................... 4
Welcome to Scandinavia’s most Northern University of Technology ................................................................... 4
Organizing Committe Members............................................................................................................................ 5
Program Committee Members ............................................................................................................................. 5
Conference Overview ....................................................................................................................................... 7
Time Schedule ................................................................................................................................................... 8
Day 1 - Thursday June 13 .................................................................................................................................... 8
Day 2 -Friday June 14 .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Keynote Speakers ........................................................................................................................................... 10
Abstracts .......................................................................................................................................................... 11
Keynote presentations ....................................................................................................................................... 13
Workshop presentations .................................................................................................................................... 14
Scientific presentations ...................................................................................................................................... 16
Clinical presentations ................................................................................................................................................... 25
Musical Performance ............................................................................................................................................... 31
Sponsors and Collaborators ................................................................................................................................... 31
T h e wo r l d ’ s most mod e r n o r g a n
at Lu l e å U n i v e r s i t y of T e c h no l o g y
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3
About the Organisers
Welcome to Scandinavia’s most Northern University of Technology
Organizing Committe Members
Luleå University of Technology is Scandinavia’s most northern university of technology, and offers world-class
research and education. Our main campus is located in Luleå, a city with approximately 75,000 residents and which
lies 120 km south of the Arctic Circle. It takes about an hour to fly to Luleå from Stockholm.
n Melt
Our university is young. It was established in 1971 with 50 students and a small number of employees. Now, we are
one of the country’s largest higher education institutions with 17,000 students and 1,600 employees. The other campuses are located in Kiruna, Piteå, Skellefteå and Filipstad.
We are foremost a university of technology, with specialised education primarily within civil engineer programmes,
but we also offer creative and artistic subjects such as dance, music and theatre. We also provide the opportunity to
study subjects such as philosophy and media with various specialisations.
Departement of Health Sciences
The Department of Health Sciences is part of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and offers several
programmes, including: Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Health Guidance, Radiography, Nursing and several
Specialist Nursing programmes.
The department’s activities are based on the Luleå campus. Several of the programmes and most of the single
subject courses are offered in the form of distance education. Research and post-graduate studies are conducted
within, e.g., Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Nursing, Health Promotion, Sports Science and Medicine, and
Pharmacology.
Musicians´ Health and Performance 1st Nordic Conference 2013
The Conference is a new forum for scientists, clinicians, musicians and music teachers with a special interest in
Musicians´ Health and Performance, and is arranged by the Department of Health Sciences at Luleå University of
Technology.
4
Levin, Conference Coordinator
Office of Marketing and Communications Luleå University of Technology, Sweden
n Ulrik
Röijezon, Assistant Professor, , Chair of Conference
Dept. of Health Sciences, Luleå University of Technology, Sweden
n Lars
Nyberg, Professor
n Ulrika
Lindstrom, PhD Student
Program Committee Members
n Lars
Nyberg, Professor
n Ulrik
Röijezon, Assistant Professor
n Teresia
Nyman, PhD
Karolinska Institutet and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
n Svend
Erik Mathiassen, Professor
Dept. of Occupational and Public Health
CBF, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Gävle, Sweden
n Karen
Søgaard, Professor
Inst. of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
n Birgit
Juul-Kristensen, Associate Professor
MHPNC 2013 will be the first Nordic Conference devoted to musicians´ health and performance and provides an
opportunity to take part of and discuss recent progress in the area of music medicine.
n Annchristine
The goal of the Conference is to bring together scientists, clinicians and musicians with special interests in various
aspects of musicians´ health and performance to share their knowledge and ideas. The results of the Conference are
expected to promote further research and development, and promote national and international collaborations within
this area.
n Helene
Topics covered include, e.g., musculoskeletal disorders, stress, hearing, health promotion, sensorimotor control and
learning, performance, creativity, and related interventions.
n Lotte
Fjellman-Wiklund, Associate Professor
Dept. of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Sweden
Paarup, PhD
Dept. of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Denmark
n Helena
Börjesson
Betania FHV, Stockholm, Sweden
Nygaard Andersen, PhD Student
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Conference program MHPNC2013
MHPNC - luleå University of Technology
Day 1 - Thursday June 13
Day 2 - Friday June 14
Black Box
Black Box
Class Room
08:00-09:00 Registration
08:00-09:00 Registration
09:00-09:20 Welcome Speech
09:00-10:00 Keynote 3 - Fredrik Ullén
09:20-09:40 Scientific Presentation 1
09:20-10:20 Workshop 1 Katarina Porander
Body control while
playing music
10:20-10:50 Coffee break
10:50-11:50 Keynote 1 - Bronwen Ackermann
10:50-11:10 Scientific presentation 10
11:50-12:10 Clinical presentation 1
11:30-12:30 Workshop 4 - Kjell Fageus
Mental training
10:50-11:50 Workshop 3 - Bronwen
Ackermann
embouchure
12:30-13:30 Lunch
12:30-13:30 Lunch
13:30-14:00 Lunch Concert
13:30-14:00 Clinical presentation 8 - Finland
The health care of the musicians
- the finnish perspective
14:00-14:30 Clinical presentation 9 - Denmark
establishment of a clinic for musicians at a University hospital
14:30-15:00 Clinical presentation 10 - Sweden
The process of teamwork
- artist och Musikerhälsan i Malmö
14:00-14:50 Workshop 2
artist- och Musikerhälsan i
Malmö Playing situations
with instruments
15:30-16:20 Keynote 2 - Karen Søgaard
15:30-16:50 Panel discussion - Future directions?
research, clinical specialisation
and occupational health services
for musicians´ health & performance
16:20-18:00 Reception och networking
16.50-17.00 Closure
19:00-
6
Class Room
Conference dinner at Stadshotellet i Piteå
7
Day 1 - Thursday June 13
Black box
Black box
09.00-09.20
WELCOME SPEECH - Mai Lindström, Head of Dept of Health Sciences
and Christer Wiklund, Head of Dept. of Arts, Communication and Education
09.20-09.40
Scientific 001 Lotte Nygaard Andersen, Kirsten Kaya Roessler, Henning Eichberg
PAIN AMONG PROFESSIONAL ORCHESTRAL MUSICIANS:
A CASE STUDY IN BODY CULTURE AND HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY
09.40-10.00
Scientific 002 Jesper Hvass Schmidt, Ellen Raben Pedsersen, Helene M Paarup,
Jakob Christensen-Dalsgaard, Ture Andersen, Torben Poulsen, Jesper Bælum
HEARING LOSS, TINNITUS AND HYPERACUSIS IN RELATION TO SOUND EXPOSURE
OF PROFESSIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MUSICIANS
10.00-10.20
Scientific 003 Ian MacDonald, John Rubin, Shashi Hirani, Edward Blake, Ruth Epstein
AN INVESTIGATION OF ABDOMINAL MUSCLE RECRUITMENT FOR SUSTAINED
PHONATION IN 25 HEALTHY SINGERS
10.20-10.50 Coffee break
10.50-11.50
Keynote 001 Bronwen Ackermann
MUSICIANS’ HEALTH – PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE
11.50-12.10
Scientific 004 Ulrik Röijezon, Birgit Juul-Kristensen
MOTOR CONTROL ALTERATIONS IN MUSICIANS
WITH MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN DISORDERS
12.10-12.30
Scientific 005 Birgit Juul-Kristensen, Ulrik Röijezon
HYPERMOBILITY AMONG MUSICIANS – ADVANTAGE OR DISADVANTAGE?
12.30-13.30Lunch
13.30-14.00 Lunch Concert – Kristallkvartetten (Crystal Quartet)
14.00-14.20
Scientific 006 Cinzia Cruder
FITNESS TRAINING TO IMPROVE MUSICIANS’ HEALTH, WELLBEING AND PERFORMANCE
14.20-14.40
Scientific 007 Cecilia Wahlström Edling, Anncristine Fjellman-Wiklund
PAIN, STRAIN AND JOY - MUSICIANS´ PERCEPTIONS OF THE WORK SITUATION
IN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAS
14.40-15.00
Scientific 008 Marit Danielsen
WHEN MY FEET HELP ME PLAY PIANISSIMO. A CASE STUDY OF THE TIMANI-TECHNIQUE
AS AN EXAMPLE FOR EMBODIED MUSIC PERFORMANCE TEACHING
15.30-16.20
Keynote 002 Karen Søgaard
RISK FACTORS FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS, WHY ARE MUSICIANS AT
RISK AND DO WE HAVE RESEARCH-BASED SUGGESTIONS FOR PREVENTION?
09.00-10.00
Keynote 003 Fredrik Ullén
THE MUSIC PERFORMING BRAIN
10.00-10.20
Scientific 009 Lotte Nygaard Andersen, Camilla Marie Larsen, Helene Paarup,
Birgit Juul-Kristensen, Eleanor Boyle, Karen Søgaard
EFFICACY OF ‘SPECIFIC STRENGTH TRAINING’ OR ‘GENERAL FITNESS TRAINING’
AND INFLUENCE ON SELF-ASSESSED PHYSICAL FITNESS IN PROFESSIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MUSICIANS - A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED PILOT TRIAL
10.50-11.10
Scientific 010 Annika Schönning
LIFELONG LEARNING - A STUDY ABOUT ORCHESTRA MUSICIANS IN “THE THIRD AGE”
11.10-11.30
Scientific 011 Camilla Marie Larsen, Lotte Nygaard Andersen, Helene Paarup, Eleanor Boyle,
Birgit Juul-Kristensen, Karen Søgaard
MUSCULOSKELETAL TROUBLES IN PROFESSIONAL ORCHESTRAL MUSICIANS:
THE INFLUENCE ON GENERAL HEALTH AND PLAYING PERFORMANCE?
11.30-12.30
Workshop 004 Kjell Fagéus
ARTISTIC MENTAL TRAINING FOR STAGE AND EDUCATION
12.30-13.30 Lunch
13.30-14.00
Clinical 008 Miikka Peltomaa
THE HEALTH CARE OF THE MUSICIANS - THE FINNISH PERSPECTIVE
Finland
14.00-14.30
Clinical 009 Peder Jest
ESTABLISHMENT OF A CLINIC FOR MUSICIANS AT A UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
Denmark
14.30-15.00
Clinical 010 Karin Engquist, Ing-Marie Olsson, Inga-Britt Niemand
ARTIST- & MUSIKERHÄLSAN - DESCRIBING THE PROCESSES OF TEAMWORK TO HELP
STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANS WITH INJURIES, BOTH IN TERMS OF
REHABILITATION AND PREVENTION
Sweden
15.30-16.50
Panel discussion - Future directions for research, clinical specialization and
occupational health services for musicians´ health & performance?
Moderator Svend Erik Mathiassen
16.50-17.00 Closure
Class room
16.20-18.00 Reception and networking
10.20-10.50
Coffee break
Class room
10.50-11.50
Workshop 003 Bronwen Ackermann
EMBOUCHURE AND BREATHING WORKSHOP FOR PRACTITIONERS
11.50-12.10
Clinical 003 John Macfarlane, Boni Rietveld
THE PREVENTION OF COMPLAINTS IN MUSICIANS
12.10-12.30
HYPERMOBILITY AND THE MUSICIAN
09.20-10.20
Workshop 001 Katarina Porander
GOOD BODY CONTROL WHILE PLAYING MUSIC
11.50-12.10
Clinical 001 Kim Eriksen1, Helene M. Paarup
MUSIC STUDENTS AND THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE
12.10-12.30
MALIGNANCIES PRESENTING AT A PERFORMING ARTS MEDICINE CLINIC
12.30-13.30Lunch
13.30-14.00 Lunch Concert – Kristallkvartetten (Crystal Quartet)
14.00-15.00
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Day 2 - Friday June 14
Workshop 002 Ing-Marie Olsson, Karin Engquist, Inga-Britt Niemand
WORKSHOP FOCUSING ON VARIOUS PLAYING SITUATIONS
WITH SPECIFIC INSTRUMENTS
16.20-18.00 Reception and networking
12.30-13.30 Lunch
13.30-14.00
Clinical 005 Kerstin Dahmén, Andreas Sjögren
MUSICIANS AND HEARING PROBLEMS
14.00-14.30
Clinical 006 Grete, Ege Gronlund
HOW TO PLAY MUSIC IN HARMONY WITH YOUR BODY - MUSIC PHYSIOLOGY,
A PREVENTION SUBJECT TO AVOID STRAIN INJURIES IN MUSICIANS
14.30-15.00
Clinical 007 Mary McGovern
THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE FOR MUSICIANS
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Keynote Speakers
Fredrik Ullén, PhD, Professor
Fredrik Ullén is professor of cognitive neuroscience at the Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm. He is a very successful
Swedish researcher who combines his research career with an international career as a concert pianist, and is also
a member of The Royal Swedish Academy of Music. Fredrik Ullén’s research involves neural mechanisms of expertise, in particular musical expertise. His research focuses on exercise effects on the brain, learning skills, the brain’s
handling of rhythm and timing, and creativity.
Presentation: THE MUSIC PERFORMING BRAIN
Karen Søgaard, PhD, Professor
Karen Søgaard is professor at the Institute for Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern
Denmark in Odense, Denmark. She has over 25 years research experience in exercise physiology, biomechanics, ergonomics and epidemiology. Her main focus is in physical education, health promotion, prevention and rehabilitation
of musculoskeletal disorders. Karen Søgaard is an authority in occupational health medicine and will give her view of
musician medicine within the broader context of occupational medicine
Presentation: RISK FACTORS FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS, WHY ARE MUSICIANS AT RISK AND DO WE
Abstracts
for conference program MHPNC2013
HAVE RESEARCH-BASED SUGGESTIONS FOR PREVENTION?
Bronwen Ackermann, PhD, PT
Bronwen Ackermann is Australia’s leading specialist physiotherapist in the area of musicians’ health research, injury
prevention and clinical treatment. She is an active clinician and researcher, working in the Sydney Medical School at
the University of Sydney. She currently leads the Linkage grant, Sound Practice, with all the major Australian orchestras as industry collaborators to address occupational health risks within the orchestral workplace. Bronwen Ackermann’s research interests include investigating better clinical movement analysis protocols for musicians, refining
targeted rehabilitation and injury prevention strategies, and investigating physiological characteristics of elite music
performers.
Presentation: MUSICIANS’ HEALTH – PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE
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Keynote presentations
Keynote 001
MUSICIANS’ HEALTH – PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE
Bronwen Ackermann
Discipline of Biomedical Science, Sydney Medical School, Lidcombe, NSW 1825, Australia.
Abstract
This presentation will present an overview of the emergence of the field of music medicine and the typical injuries
faced by this population. Research to date has proposed a number of key risk factors leading to injury in performers,
and the common injuries seen in the clinical setting. A particular challenge faced today by clinicians and researchers
is that our methods of assessment and rehabilitation have not been targeted to meet the needs of this hyper-functioning population and are based on traditional models of deficit-based assessment and injury management that only
returns performers to a general population norm. Goals and strategies of future research will be discussed including
task analysis of injured musicians in this population, the need for establishing potential boundaries of ‘how much is
too much’, the challenges of implementing injury surveillance and prevention programs, and extending our clinical
management to encompass the needs of elite performers.
Keynote 002
RISK FACTORS FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS,
WHY ARE MUSICIANS AT RISK AND DO WE HAVE RESEARCH-BASED
SUGGESTIONS FOR PREVENTION?
Karen Søgaard
Institute of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
Abstract
It is well known from work physiology, that repetitive and high frequency movements is a risk factor for development
of musculoskeletal disorders. Aggravating factors are low degree of variation, high demands on precision both in relation to timing and level of force as well as high mental demands and irregular working hours.
For many musicians this is a description of their occupational exposure both during practice and performance. Therefore, it is not surprising that a literature search on musculoskeletal disorders among musicians reveals a large number
of papers documenting a high frequency of playing related disorders. There is a considerable relation between
disorders in different locations and the instrument played, which clearly indicate an ergonomic factor. Of notice is that
female musicians and string players are most at risk for attracting symptoms.
For musicians, musculoskeletal disorders not only cause pain and decreased quality of life but may also have an
effect on performance and the chances to continue as a musician. Therefore, there is a crucial need for good prevention and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders among musicians.
Good ergonomics aims to fit the task to the man and usually involve both an adjustment of tools and work place as
well as the advice to increase variation as much as possible during the repetitive work task. Obviously these advices
are hard to follow for a musician.
Recently, the concept of intelligent physical exercise training has been evaluated and especially for sedentary jobs
with high repetitive movements has shown a pain relieving effect. Such an approach may also benefit musicians if it
can be tailored to their specific needs.
Keynote 003
THE MUSIC PERFORMING BRAIN
Fredrik Ullén
Dept. of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
Abstract
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Musicians have become one of the most commonly used model groups in studies of expertise and brain plasticity,
and the neurobiology of music is today a well-established field of research within cognitive neuroscience. In this talk, I
will summarize some major findings that have emerged from research on the brains of musicians, and discuss a number of current key questions in the field. Topics to be discussed include effects of musical training on the anatomy
and function of the brain, whether there are sensitive periods for musical training during development, transfer effects
of musical training on other abilities, and specific effects of training musical improvisation. I will also present a recently started collaborative research programme, Humans Making Music, where we study a number of broad questions
relating to the neuropsychology of music from a behavior genetic perspective.
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Workshops
Workshop 001
GOOD BODY CONTROL WHILE PLAYING MUSIC
Katarina Porander
Ergokinetics company, Espoo, Finland
Workshop 004
ARTISTIC MENTAL TRAINING FOR STAGE AND EDUCATION
Kjell Fagéus
Freelance, Stockholm, Sweden
Abstract
Abstract
The presentation contains practical demonstrations with music students. The teacher participates with their student
and present the physical problems in playing. The physiotherapist is working on the body by doing different exercises
and after that transfer a better body function to playing. A balanced and naturally working body and good playing
technics goes hand in hand, this is what we will experience in this workshop. Musculoskeletal injuries will happen as
a result of insufficient body control and incorrect training. Music education that emphasized body consciousness is
important when preventing injuries, but it also makes playing easy and relaxed. In the end of the workshop there will
be a discussion about the importance right ergonomics and the role of the physiotherapist in music education and
training of teachers.
The purpose of this training is that musicians may perform at their own highest level with flow. The training follows a
progressive line and provides a physical and mental space where the musicians can feel calm, confident, and free to
try, play, fail and succeed. Our individual learning stories will have a prominent place. Stories will be used as a “mirror
gallery”, where the musician can reflect himself or herself. The progressive line and the space rig a setup where
knowledge and experience creates by itself - from within the musicians. Participants are trained in mental strengths,
strengths in traditional sense and more profound allowing oneself being human, sensitive and vulnerable.
Workshop 002
WORKSHOP FOCUSING ON VARIOUS PLAYING SITUATIONS
WITH SPECIFIC INSTRUMENTS
Ing-Marie Olsson, Karin Engquist, Inga-Britt Niemand
Artist- och Musikerhälsan, Malmö, Sweden
Abstract
Workshop about different playing situations depending on which instrument you are playing. Ergonomics with focus
on stable positions and balanced movements while playing in sitting or standing positions (1, 2, 3 ). Special focus at
the interplay between the musician and the instrument (4). Tension and pain (5 ) is common problems for the musicians and for the students. We want to illustrate the analysis and the change with starting-point from a string instrumentalist (6), a wind instrumentalist (7) and a pianist (8 ). Presentation of the function of the shoulder girdle because
of it´s complexity and how to find strain-free movements. Some improving exercises will be presented.
References
1. Dropsy J. Den harmoniska kroppen: en osynlig övning. Borås: Natur och Kultur; 1993.
2.Elphinston J. Total stabilitetsträning: Prestationsutvecklande, skadeförebyggande, övningar och teori.
Stockholm: SISU Idrottsböcker; 2006.
3.Roxendal G, Winberg A. Levande människa: Bassal Kroppskännedom för rörelse och vila.
Falköping: Natur och Kultur; 2002.
4. Chamagne Ph. Prévention des troubles fonctionnels chez les musiciens: aleXitère; 1996
5. Ingvar M, Eldh G. Hjärnkoll på värk och smärta. Stockholm: Natur och Kultur; 2012.
6. Sazer V. New Directions in Cello Playing. Los Angeles: ofnote; 1995
7. Pearson L. Body Mapping for Flutists. Chicago: GIA Publications; 2012
8. Mark Th. What every pianist needs to know about the body: Chicago: GIA Publications, Inc.; 2003
Workshop 003
EMBOUCHURE AND BREATHING WORKSHOP FOR PRACTITIONERS
Bronwen Ackermann
Discipline of Biomedical Science, Sydney Medical School, Lidcombe, NSW 1825, Australia.
Abstract
Background: For singers, woodwind and brass players, precise control of the breathing apparatus, jaw and facial
muscles are critical to reach and sustain optimal performance levels. Very little research has been done with musicians, particularly wind players, and much of the existing respiratory research is based on respiratory diseases or
maximal airflow topics.
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Purpose of workshop: The aim of this workshop is to give a summary of existing evidence on breathing mechanisms and facial muscle activity patterns, including new research conducted on 115 wind musicians characterizing
these patterns into instrument-specific demands. Following this, clinical methods of assessing and rehabilitating
breathing and embouchure dysfunction based on functional anatomy and scientific evidence will be discussed and
practiced.
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Scientific presentations
Scientific 001
PAIN AMONG PROFESSIONAL ORCHESTRAL MUSICIANS:
A CASE STUDY IN BODY CULTURE AND HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY
Lotte Nygaard Andersen1, Kirsten Kaya Roessler2, Henning Eichberg1
Institute of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark,
Institute of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
1
2
Abstract
Introduction: Professional musicians experience high rates of musculoskeletal pain(1, 2), but only few studies have
investigated how this pain is accepted by musicians.
Aim: To investigate the culture of pain and to explore how professional musicians experience and cope pain.
Methods: Ten semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted; eight with musicians and two with professional
elite athletes. In addition, a concert and two rehearsals were observed. The audio-taped interviews were transcribed
verbatim. Configurational analysis was used to interpret the material as a whole.
Conclusions: Most of the symphony orchestra musicians had normal hearing but they had a work-related risk of
developing additional noise induced hearing loss. Increased risk of tinnitus and hyperacusis in relation to the exposure could not be observed. The observed additional noise induced hearing loss was at the expected level based on
reference values from cumulated sound exposure (3).
References
1. Schmidt, JH, Pedersen, ER, Juhl, PM, Christensen-Dalsgaard, J, Andersen, TD, Poulsen, T, Bælum, J. Sound Exposure of Symphony Orchestra Musicians. Ann.Occup.Hyg 2011;55:893-905
2.International Organization for Standardization. ISO7029. Acoustics -- Statistical distribution of hearing thresholds as a function of age. International Organization for Standardization; 2000.
3.International Organization for Standardization. ISO1999. Acoustics -- Determination of occupational noise expo-
sure and estimation of noise-induced hearing impairment. International Organization for Standardization;1990.
Results: Musicians often experience pain as a consequence of prolonged repetitive work early in their career. Such
pain is only compounded by the lack of breaks during concerts and rehearsals. Orchestras seldom give opportunities
for adjustments required for individual instruments, for breaks or for action to prevent pain. Musicians’ strong sense
of coherence and the experience of pain as integral to their identity have encouraged musicians to develop flexible
coping strategies. Ignoring pain and potential damage is an accepted concomitant to striving for perfection. A musician does not focus on pain but on the music.
Scientific 003
Conclusion: For the musician pain has a significance beyond being something that can simply be removed by a
practitioner. Pain tells both an individual and a cultural story that is crying out to be heard.
University College London, London, UK
References
1. Zaza C. Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders in musicians: A systematic review of incidence and prevalence. Canadian Medical Association Journal. 1998 1998;158:1019-25.
2.Leaver R, Harris EC, Palmer KT. Musculoskeletal pain in elite professional musicians from British symphony
orchestras. Occupational medicine (Oxford, England). 2011 Dec;61(8):549-55.
Scientific 002
HEARING LOSS, TINNITUS AND HYPERACUSIS IN RELATION TO SOUND
EXPOSURE OF PROFESSIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MUSICIANS
Jesper Hvass Schmidt2 ,4, Ellen Raben Pedsersen1 ,4, Helene M Paarup1 ,4,
Jakob Christensen-Dalsgaard3, Ture Andersen2 ,4, Torben Poulsen5, Jesper Bælum1 ,4
Dept. of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, DK, Odense, Denmark, 2Dept. of Audiology Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark,
DK, Odense, Denmark, 3Institute of Biology, Centre for Sound Communication, University of Southern Denmark,, Odense, Denmark, 4Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark,
5
Centre for Applied Hearing Research, Department of Electrical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark,,
Lyngby, Denmark
1
Abstract
Background: Professional symphony orchestra musicians are exposed to loud sounds from music but it is still
debated whether increased sound exposure leads to an increased risk of noise induced hearing loss and hearing
associated symptoms such as tinnitus and hyperacusis (1). Tinnitus and hyperacusis may be particular predominant
in a population of musicians since musicians especially pay attention to audiologic symptoms.
Objectives: To estimate the hearing status objectively and subjectively of classical symphony orchestra musicians
and to investigate the hypothesis that occupational sound exposure of symphony orchestra musicians leads to elevated hearing thresholds and increased risk of hearing associated symptoms.
Design: The exposure was estimated by binaural sound measurements of the sound exposure during concerts,
rehearsals and personal practice. 212 musicians from five symphony orchestras took part in audiometric testing and
the test results were analysed in relation to the individual exposure. The musicians’ individual exposure was estimated on the basis of sound measurements and data from a cross sectional self-reported questionnaire regarding the
exposure time. The mean hearing threshold at the frequencies 3, 4 and 6 kHz, corrected for age and gender (2), was
used as objective outcome and subjective outcomes were hearing loss, tinnitus and hyperacusis.
16
hearing thresholds of 6.3 dB compared to the musicians with lowest exposure. Trumpet players and the left ear of 1st
violinists had significant elevated hearing thresholds compared to other musicians. 1st violinists had on average 5.6
(95% confidence interval (CI) 2.4- 8.9) dB poorer hearing on their left ear compared to the right ear which was related
to the asymmetric exposure. Approximately one third of the musicians complained of hearing associated symptoms.
No statistic significant relationship between increased exposure and increased risk of tinnitus and hyperacusis could
be observed.
Results: Most of the musicians had better hearing at 3, 4 and 6 kHz for age than expected. Musicians with an
average annual exposure above 90.4 dBA and with a mean exposure time of 41.7 years showed significant elevated
AN INVESTIGATION OF ABDOMINAL MUSCLE RECRUITMENT
FOR SUSTAINED PHONATION IN 25 HEALTHY SINGERS
Ian MacDonald, John Rubin, Shashi Hirani, Edward Blake, Ruth Epstein
Abstract
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the baseline muscle thickness and recruitment patterns
of the transversus abdominis muscle [TAM] and the internal oblique muscle [IOM] during semi-supine phonation in a
group of healthy performers.
Study design: This 2x3x2 within groups, repeated measures study examined changes just prior to vocalising a simple vowel (/a:/), the absolute changes in millimetres and the percentage change measures calculated for three voice
qualities (modal, opera and belt), and at two pitches (low and medium ).
Methodology: The convenience sample had 12 males and 13 females, with an average age of 21.9 years (sd=4.28).
A control was labelled “modal voice” (no technical preparation) and “opera quality” and “belting quality” were chosen
for the athleticism required. Measurements were taken with ultrasound [Sonosite Micromaxx US] of the baseline
thickness and % recruitment during voicing, of the two deep abdominal muscles. A transducer was placed transversely across the abdominal wall on a point between the inferior angle of the rib cage and the iliac crest and 10cm
from the umbilicus until the antero-medial aspect of the transversus abdomens was visualised. On-screen callipers
were then used to take a very clear measure from a frozen M-mode image. Correlations between TAM and IOM absolute change scores; TAM and IOM percentage change scores; and muscle changes (absolute and percentage) and
age, were examined. Gender differences in the 4 types of change scores within each combination of pitch and quality
were conducted with one-way ANOVAs. Alpha level was set to 0.05.
Results: In terms of absolute contractions (changes in the actual millimetre thickness of the muscle) the IOM was
always greater than the TAM. However, in terms of percentage changes in muscles, the TAM was always greater than
the IOM. Changes in absolute measures are related between the IOM and the TAM; however, percentage changes in
the TAM and IOM are generally not correlated significantly. The TAM as a percentage change was recruited preferentially and significantly in most vocal qualities tested. Although there were differences in muscle mass and recruitment
patterns between genders, and males had thicker muscle mass at rest, these differences were not conclusive.
Conclusions: Overall this study supports the argument that the peri-abdominal muscles do indeed play a role in
supporting the “performing” or athletic voice in healthy subjects, and will hopefully act as a database for further
research in individuals with healthy and injured voices.
Scientific 004
MOTOR CONTROL ALTERATIONS IN MUSICIANS WITH
MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN DISORDERS
Ulrik Röijezon1, Birgit Juul-Kristensen2 ,3
Department of Health Sciences, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden, 2Institute of Sports Science
and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark, 3Institute of Occupational
Therapy, Physiotherapy and Radiography, Bergen University College, Bergen, Norway
1
17
Abstract
Musculoskeletal pain disorder (MSD) is a common cause for long-term work absenteeism among both women and
men in the western world, including the Nordic countries. Musicians represent a profession highly afflicted with pain
disorders, especially the areas of the neck, shoulder, arm, hand and the upper and lower back.
During the last decades an abundant amount of research has reported associations between MSD and motor control
disturbances. Common findings include altered neuromuscular coordination and reduced movement precision, as
well as reduced strength, endurance and mobility. These disturbances can be of importance for recurrence and duration of the disorders, but also for work ability. Presumably, this can be of specific significance, with risk for absenteeism among professions with high demands on motor control.
Musicians are highly dependent on fine motor control, such as fast and accurate finger movements, as well as
postural and muscular endurance. Although the amount of research on motor control in pain disorders is extensive,
only a few studies have investigated sensorimotor functions among musicians with musculoskeletal pain disorders.
Altered posture has been reported, where one study reported dysfunction of the postural stability systems of the low
back, shoulder and neck among musicians with playing related disorders (1). However, this study lacked an asymptomatic control group. A couple of studies have reported increased sensorimotor disturbances of the hand and arm
among music students with symptoms compared to asymptomatic controls (2, 3). A few studies have investigated
muscle activity of superficial neck-shoulder muscles in musicians with neck pain while playing the violin or viola, but
the results are incoherent reporting both increased and reduced muscle activity, e.g. (4, 5).
Taken together, altered motor control appears to be a concern for musicians with playing related MSD. There is,
though, a need for further investigation into motor control functioning among musicians and the association with
MSD, especially whilst playing musical instrument. Increased insights in this area can be of important value for prevention and rehabilitation strategies.
References
1.Steinmetz A et al. Impairment of postural stabilization systems in musicians with playing-related musculoskeletal disorders. J Manip Physiol Ther. 2010 Oct;33(8):603-11.
2.Daenen L et al. Sensorimotor incongruence triggers sensory disturbances in professional violinists. Rheumatology. 2010 Jul;49(7):1281-9.
3.Baskurt Z et al. Assessment of kinesthetic awareness and fine motor dexterity in music students with
performance-related hand disorders. Healthmed. 2012;6(10):3395-402.
4.Berque P, Gray H. The influence of neck-shoulder pain on trapezius muscle activity among professional violin
and viola players. Med Probl Perform Art. 2002 Jun;17(2):68-75.
5.Park KN et al. Comparison of Electromyographic Activity and Range of Neck Motion in Violin Students with and without Neck Pain During Playing. Med Probl Perform Art. 2012 Dec;27(4):188-92.
Scientific 005
HYPERMOBILITY AMONG MUSICIANS – ADVANTAGE OR DISADVANTAGE?
Birgit Juul-Kristensen1 ,2, Ulrik Roijezon3
Institute of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark,, Odense,, Denmark,
Institute of Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Radiography, Bergen University College,, Bergen,, Norway, 3Department of Health Sciences, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå,, Sweden
1
2
Abstract
18
Generalised Joint Hypermobility (GJH) is a condition frequent seen in several hereditary diseases of connective
disorders. It is defined from the maximal range of motion, often by the Beighton score, representing the laxity of the
involved ligaments. GJH is a genetic feature, but also susceptible to training. GJH in adults is, when present with
symptoms, characterised by functional limitations (1), decreased muscle strength, stability, proprioception, and an
altered gait and muscle activity pattern.
There are no precise prevalence rates of adults with Generalised Joint Hypermobility (GJH), but a recent review
reports a varying prevalence for adults from 2-57% depending on age, gender and ethnic origin. For children the
prevalence varies from 7-36%, primarily depending on the tests and criteria (especially the cut off-points) used for
diagnosing GJH. GJH is more frequent in females/ girls than males/boys (2).
Several studies found GJH to be frequent among performing artists, such as ballet dancers, gymnasts, and even
musicians (3) and hypothesized an association between GJH and development of musculoskeletal disorders. As an
example, professional dancers have higher physical fitness (walking distance, muscle strength, estimated VO2-max)
than a matched control group, but for those with GJH, this advantage was not present.
In a study of musicians a clear association was found between forearm and hand pain and GJH in 35% of female and
17% of male musicians (3), and also an increased prevalence of knee and spine symptoms in musicians with GJH
(4). It has been suggested, that when playing music GJH is even an advantage, especially for joints that move quickly
(wrists, elbows), but a disadvantage for joints that should stabilise (knees, back). However, one study did not find
such association between symptoms and GJH in pianists.
In summary, there seems to be some association between musculoskeletal injuries and GJH, presumably also in
musicians, although the studies of this group are few. Therefore, larger epidemiological studies are necessary to
confirm an association between GJH and musculoskeletal disorders in musicians, and whether specific precautions
or preventive strategies should be taken for this group.
References
1. Juul-Kristensen B, Hansen H, Simonsen EB, Alkjaer T, Kristensen JH, Jensen BR, et al. Knee function in
10-year-old children and adults with Generalised Joint Hypermobility. The Knee. 2012;19:773-8.
2. Remvig L, Jensen DV, Ward RC. Epidemiology of general joint hypermobility and basis for the proposed criteria
for benign joint hypermobility syndrome: review of the literature. J Rheumatol. 2007;34(4):804-9.
3. Brandfonbrener AG. Joint laxity and arm pain in a large clinical sample of musicians. Med Probl Perform Art. 2002;17(september):113-5.
4Larsson LG, Baum J, Mudholkar GS, Kollia GD. Benefits and disadvantages of joint hypermobility among
musicians. NEnglJ Med. 1993;329(15):1079-82.
Scientific 006
FITNESS TRAINING TO IMPROVE MUSICIANS’ HEALTH,
WELLBEING AND PERFORMANCE
Cinzia Cruder
Research and development Division of the University school of music, Lugano, Switzerland
Abstract
This research consists of a Doctorate program’s proposal and will develop fitness assessments and exercise programmes tailored to specific instrumental groups, thereby complementing the more general research already undertaken in similar institutions.
The training required to reach the highest levels of performance is significant for musicians. The achievement and
improvement of musical competences and technical abilities are subject to the use of the body, sometimes in unnatural positions, by means of continuous and repeated movements; it will come as no great surprise that musicians
experience susceptible changes in musculature, bone structure, circulation and respiration to the same degree as
expert performers in other domains (1). At length, a daily practice routine accompanied by straining and repetitive
movements can even degenerate into chronic health problems and musculoskeletal injuries which may affect musicians irreparably.
The causes of these musculoskeletal symptoms have been documented mainly as being over practising, insufficient
rest breaks, poor posture, poor physical condition, change of instrument or inadequate instrument set-up, difficult
repertoire, and stress of a demanding lifestyle (2).
Concerning the importance of prevention to avoid ill health within the profession, musicians can been seen (at least
to some extent) as athletes of the upper body. However, all athletes warm up before and cool down after practice
and performance because injuries are common if muscles are not exercised. Zaza and Farewell (3) demonstrated
that warming up before, taking breaks during practice and cooling down after practice and performance can prevent
performance-related pain and injuries.
Unfortunately, musicians often tend to underestimate the long-term consequences of bad habits and stress on their
physical and mental health. Indeed, according to Williamon et al. (4), musicians tend not to score well on standardized tests of physical fitness. Giving the physicality of musicians’ work, it would be thus suitable to develop specific
and tailored exercises, focused on strengths and weaknesses of each instrument.
Nonetheless, studies directly relating to instrument-specific fitness are conspicuously missing from the literature, and
therefore musicians must turn to generic recommendations from other fields, such as exercise science, sport and
dance.
The main aim will be to improve musicians’ health and wellbeing by changing individual musicians’ attitudes toward
health music making and by creating a step change in educational and employment contexts.
References
1.Allard F, Starkes JL. Motor-skill experts in sports and other domains. In: Ericsson KA, Smith J, editors.
Toward a General Theory of Expertise: Prospects and Limits. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press;
1991. p. 126-152.
2 Wynn Parry CB. Managing the physical demands of musical performance. In: Williamon A,editor.
Musical Excellence. New York: Oxford University Press; 2004. p. 41-60.
3 Zaza C, Farewell VT. Musicians’ Playing-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: An Examination of Risk Factors. American Journal of Industrial Medicine. 1997; 32(3): 292-300.
4.Williamon A, Wasley D, Burt-Perkins R, Ginsborg J, Hildebrandt W. Profiling musicians’ health, wellbeing,
and performance. In: Williamon A , Pretty S, Buck R, editors. Proceedings of the International Symposium
on Performance Science 2009. Association of European Conservatoires; 2009. p. 85-90.
19
Scientific 007
PAIN, STRAIN AND JOY - MUSICIANS´ PERCEPTIONS OF THE WORK
SITUATION IN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAS
Cecilia Wahlström Edling1 ,2, Anncristine Fjellman-Wiklund1
Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå,
Sweden, 2Umeå Center for Gender Studies, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
1
Abstract
Introduction: Musicians perform demanding work tasks under psychological pressure (1). Work-related musculoskeletal symptoms as well as stress and stage fright, are common problems in symphony orchestras (2). Research
shows that physical work-load interplay with psychosocial factors in the genesis of musculoskeletal symptoms (3).
This study aimed at exploring how musicians in symphony orchestras perceive and deal with their work situation and
related symptoms.
Methods: The study had a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews. Three women and three men in
professional symphony orchestras were interviewed. The interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed and analyzed
according to a phenomenographic approach.
Results: Four themes emerged from the interviews. There were High external and internal demands, ascribed as part
of the requirements of the profession. The orchestra was described as a collective, dependent on the individuals to
produce high quality concerts. No mistakes or excuses were accepted from themselves or their colleagues. Physical
demands such as tiring, locked work postures and not being allowed to choose chair or take a break when needed
were addressed. The loud work environment contributed to stress. The informants experienced Mental and physical
symptoms. They felt nervous, vulnerable and exposed, both during rehearsals and concerts. This made it difficult to
control the instrument and tone quality. Muscle tension, stiffness and pain were described, in connection to periods
with high work-load or through the professional lifespan. Hearing problems were vividly described. The musicians
had Multiple ways of handling the work situation, often in combinations. Body awareness and mental training techniques were used to focus better on work tasks and to cope with symptoms. Physical exercise was considered to
be important in order to cope with the physical demands. Physical exercise could also make muscle pain become
worse. It was difficult to find relief from musculoskeletal symptoms. The musicians often played despite of pain and
had difficulties getting adequate treatment. The musicians loved the music and to perform it, and expressed both Joy
and satisfaction. High demands on perfection contributed to symptoms, but also to good concerts. Some colleagues
were close friends, and positive feed-back from them was important, although too seldom communicated.
References
1. Holmes P, Holmes C. The performer’s experience: A case for using qualitatitve (phenomenological) methodologies in music performance research. Musicae Scientiae. 2013;17: 72-85
2.Jensenius AR. Musikk og bevegelse [Music and movement]. Oslo, Norway: Unipub; 2009
Scientific 009
EFFICACY OF ‘SPECIFIC STRENGTH TRAINING’ OR ‘GENERAL FITNESS
TRAINING’ AND INFLUENCE ON SELF-ASSESSED PHYSICAL FITNESS IN
PROFESSIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MUSICIANS - A RANDOMIZED
CONTROLLED PILOT TRIAL
Lotte Nygaard Andersen1, Camilla Marie Larsen1, Helene Paarup2, Birgit Juul-Kristensen1 ,3,
Eleanor Boyle1, Karen Søgaard1
Institute of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark,
Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark,
3
Institute of Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Radiography, Bergen University College, Bergen, Norway
1
Conclusions: This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the work situation in a symphony orchestra and
what difficulties to handle. Health promotion programs including teaching young music students how to cope with
such situations, and how to prevent musculoskeletal symptoms, at an early stage in the career is important.
2
References
Abstract
1. Wahlström Edling C, Fjellman-Wiklund A. Musculoskeletal disorders and asymmetric playing postures of the upper extremity and back in music teachers - A pilot study. Med Probl Perform Art 2009; 24: 113-118.
2.Liljeholm Johansson Y, Theorell T. Satisfaction with work task quality correlates with employee health.
Med Probl Perform Art 2003; 18: 141-149.
3. Fjellman-Wiklund A, Sundelin G, Brulin C. Musicianship and teaching: Positive health factors in music teachers. Med Probl Perform Art 2002; 17: 3-10.
Scientific 008
WHEN MY FEET HELP ME PLAY PIANISSIMO.
A CASE STUDY OF THE TIMANI-TECHNIQUE AS AN EXAMPLE
FOR EMBODIED MUSIC PERFORMANCE TEACHING
Marit Danielsen
Bergen University College, Bergen, Norway
Abstract
20
for music performance teaching and 2) suggest how an understanding for functional anatomy and the body as lived
“expressivity center” can be a part of music teachers’ professional knowledge, and what methodological and ethical
considerations this implicates.
Triangulation of perspectives was a goal for the analysis and was enabled by merging different data that content as
follows: 1) Participating observation, 2) Written notes from three musicians, 3) Video recordings of master class situations, 4) In-depth interviews with the three musicians with use of stimulated recall and 5) Background and follow-up
interviews with the teacher.
Preliminary results show that when the three musicians learn how to perform with the principles explained in the
course, a “wow factor” occurs: The three musicians explain their own sound as ‘richer’, ‘more resonant’, ‘opener’, ‘having more core’, ‘less forced’. The three musicians’ explain their experiences of performing as ‘feeling more
stable’, ‘finally experiencing what support is’, ‘releasing tension’, ‘being confused’, ’being surprised’, ‘feeling free in
the body’, ‘getting more space for the breath’. The three musicians start to use the learnt anatomy terminology to
express their more articulated and nuanced understanding of their bodies as being an important part of their instrument.
It is discussed how terms from human movement science could contribute in the field of music education as an
empowering methodology that takes into consideration musicians’ health challenges and the relationship between
musical expression and experienced movement.
With phenomenology and embodied music cognition as theoretical and methodological framework (1, 2) I investigate
with a qualitative approach what happens when three advanced musicians are at a course with a music performance
teaching approach that claims to be based on the body’s premises. The teaching approach is developed by a Norwegian pianist with a special interest for anatomy and biomechanics, and it seems to be based on a holistic perspective
on musicians’ health where physiological and psychological challenges for music performers are seen as a whole.
The research question I pose is the following: How can knowledge about the body and attention to music performers’
bodily experiences contribute to music performance teaching? The purpose with the study is 1) to achieve insight
in what happens with the three musicians’ sound quality and experiences of performing when the body is subject
Introduction: Among professional musicians playing-related disorders are frequent with a point prevalence from
39% to 87% (1). This is probably due to static contractions and repetitive movements during long rehearsals and
concerts. Holding and playing an instrument for many hours implied high demands of precise and accurate grasps
that cannot be performed without a certain muscular endurance and strength (2). Although, there is still no evidence
for training methods, effective training appears to represent a balance between the musician’s health and the quality
of playing (1). The aims of the study were, 1) to evaluate efficacy of two interventions on general pain and physical
capacity, 2) to evaluate interventions influence on self-assessed physical fitness.
Methods: A total of 23 professional symphony orchestra musicians were randomly allocated to either 1) specific
strength training group (SST, n=12) or 2) general fitness training group (GFT, n=11). The participants conducted 3 × 20
minutes training each week at the workplace for 9 weeks.
General pain was rated on a 100 mm visual analog scale (VAS) prior (PRE) and post (POST) intervention. Aerobic
power was estimated in a submaximal bicycle test.
Self-assessed physical fitness was evaluated with a questionnaire containing five items; aerobic fitness, muscle
strength, endurance, flexibility and balance rated on a Likert scale.
Results: At baseline the two groups did not differ on age, gender, BMI, grip strength, aerobic power or general pain
(p=0.18-0.73). From PRE to POST GFT increased significantly in aerobic power (Δ=5.9(0.93 to 10.9) ml/kg/min) compared to the decrease in SST (Δ=-1.8 (-3.9 to 0.34) ml/kg/min) (p<0.01).
From PRE to POST, SST showed a significant reduction in pain (ΔVAS=-14.9 (-29.9 to 0.3) mm) (p=0.05), while GFT
decreased non-significantly (ΔVAS=-6.3 (-13.6 to 1.0) mm) (p=0.09). However, GFT increased in self-assessed muscle
strength from PRE to POST (Δ=-0.7(-1.2 to -0.3)) (p<0.01).
Discussion and conclusion: This study showed a clinically relevant lowering of general pain in SST. GFT achieved
an increase in aerobic power but this increase in cardiorespiratory fitness was generally not reflected in the musicians’ own assessment of their physical fitness. However, GFT assessed an increase in muscle strength which
could indirectly be related to a perceived improvement in functional capacity. The clinical relevance of the increase in
self-assessed muscle strength may be questioned and more studies on interventions with training tailored to improve
musicians’ physical fitness are needed.
21
References
1. Zaza C. Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders in musicians: A systematic review of incidence and prevalence. Canadian Medical Association Journal. 1998 1998;158:1019-25.
2. Wilke C, Priebus J, Biallas B, Frobose I. Motor activity as a way of preventing musculoskeletal problems in string musicians. Medical problems of performing artists. 2011 Mar;26(1):24-9. PubMed PMID: 21442133.
Epub 2011/03/29. eng.
Scientific 010
LIFELONG LEARNING
A STUDY ABOUT ORCHESTRA MUSICIANS IN “THE THIRD AGE”
Annika Schönning
Stockholm Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Stockholm, Sweden
Abstract
What differentiates orchestra musicians from most other professional groups is that their learning period is extremely
long; those who continue the hobby of their youth into a musical profession may have prepared their professional
life for 15, perhaps 20 years (1, 2, 3, 4). Their working life could be described as a continuation of their student years
with everlasting new study tasks, but with an implacably prompting time factor. Age has an inevitable impact on the
professional life of the musicians (5) and the musicians self-criticism forces them to quit before they “have become a
problem”. Musicians are highly intolerant against everything that negatively affects the quality of the play and which
may impair the reputation of the orchestra. Musicians must play their parts well, but the high demands for admission
to the orchestra usually guarantee that the musician has the capacity to do so during their whole professional life (5).
But not even the expert commands the practised skills forever, expertise demands a continuos grounding. According
to Brodsky (6) it is remarkable that so little research has addressed the full life span of musicians although orchestras
now to 40 % consists of musicians older than 50. Brodsky does not refer to own studies within the area but discusses results which could emanate from future research; have orchestra musicians in general more resistance or higher
ability to recover than the general population? Is it because of the life-long musical training, or is it a life-style of playing and performing that somehow makes the musicians – more than the rest of the population – immune to aging,
Brodsky wonders. My study describes individual learning strategies as well as collective learning among experienced
orchestra musicians in “the third age”; 50 to 65 years old. I have interviewed seven string-musicians working in the
three largest symphony orchestras in Sweden. The results show that their work methods change over time in relation
to their experiences but also due to physical and mental wear. It was obvious that there is a problem to verbalise the
learning process and to differentiate individual from collective learning. The musicians´ thoughts about strategies to
maintain the best individual playing condition during their whole professional life were subordinated the development
of the collective. The study wants to initiate a discussion about individual “restoration” of orchestra musicians in “the
third age”.
ed high 12-month prevalences of MSK symptoms between 83 to 97% (3). Knowledge is scarce regarding the effect
of MSK pain on general health and how upper body pain affects performance among musicians. First aim was to
investigate the relationship between physical pain in all body regions and self-reported general health. Second aim
was to investigate if upper extremity (UE) MSK pain impacted playing performance.
Methods: Baseline data from a RCT of professional orchestral musicians (n=23). General health assessment and
level of general physical pain were based on SF-36 Health-Survey. All participants were divided into two subgroups
based on pain during the past four-weeks rated on a Likert Scale. ‘No’ or ‘only very light’ pain formed the ‘no-pain’group(NoP) while ‘light pain’ and three other levels formed the ‘pain’-group(P).
Participants who in the Disability of Arm, Shoulder or Hand questionnaire (DASH) reported primary pain in the UE
defined the group with UE troubles. Impact on playing performance was based on selected questions from the music
module of the DASH-questionnaire classified as either ‘having’- or ‘not having’-difficulties with playing their musical
instrument or as ‘having’- or ‘not having’-problems with spending the usual amount of time doing work within past
week. Maximal pain was defined as highest marked score within UE on a pain manikin.
Results: At baseline NoP and P did not differ on age, gender, BMI, years of playing the instrument and type of instrument played (p=0.33-1.00). All participants reported general health status as either ‘good’ (NoP:5, P:6) or ‘very good’
(NoP:4, P:8) with no significant difference in distribution between pain groups (p=0.41).
Of the 23 participants, 18 (78%) reported primary troubles related to UE, while 13 (72%) of these had ‘difficulties’ with
playing their musical instrument. No significant difference in level of maximal pain was found between those with ‘no
difficulties’:3.0±1.9 and those with ‘difficulties’:4.6±2.1 (p=0.16).
Additionally, 14 (78%) participants had ‘problems’ with spending their usual amount of time doing work. There were
no significant differences in level of maximal pain between ‘no-problems’:3.3±2.1 and ‘problems’:4.4±2.2 (p=0.35).
Conclusion: In spite of musculoskeletal troubles, musicians reported a good general health status independent of
physical pain. There were many reported difficulties with playing performance, but difficulties were not associated
with level of maximal pain. Since data were analyzed secondary to a RCT we acknowledge the possibility of low
power.
References
1.Leaver R, Harris EC, Palmer KT. Musculoskeletal pain in elite professional musicians from British symphony orchestras. Occupational medicine (Oxford, England). 2011 Dec;61(8):549-55. PubMed PMID: 22003061.
Pubmed Central PMCID: PMC3428866. Epub 2011/10/18. eng.
2.Zaza C. Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders in musicians: A systematic review of incidence and prevalence. Canadian Medical Association Journal. 1998 1998;158:1019-25.
3.Paarup HM, Baelum J, Holm JW, Manniche C, Wedderkopp N. Prevalence and consequences of musculoskeletal symptoms in symphony orchestra musicians vary by gender: a cross-sectional study. BMCMusculoskeletDisord. 2011 2011;12:223.
Scientific 012 Poster presentation
A COMBINATION OF CONSTRAINT INDUCED THERAPY AND MOTOR
CONTROL RETRAINING IN THE TREATMENT OF FOCAL HAND DYSTONIA
IN MUSICIANS – A LONG TERM FOLLOW UP STUDY
References
1. Bloom BS, editor. Developing Talent in Young People. New York: Ballantine Books; 1983.
2.Ericsson KA, editor. The development of professional expertise: Toward measurement of expert performance
and design of optimal learning environments. New York: Cambridge University Press; 2009. p. 405-431.
3. McPherson GE, Williamon A. Giftedness and talent. In: McPherson GE, editor. The Child as Musician.
A Handbook of Musical Development. New York: Oxford; 2006. p. 239-256.
4. Sloboda JA et al. The role of practice in the development of performing musicians. British Journal of Psychology. 1996; 87: 287-309.
5. Smith DWE. The great symphony orchestra. International Journal of Aging and Human Development. 1988; 27(4).
6. Brodsky W. Rationale behind investigating positive aging among symphony orchestra musicians.
Musicae Scientiae. 2011; 15(1): 3-15.
Scientific 011
MUSCULOSKELETAL TROUBLES IN PROFESSIONAL ORCHESTRAL MUSICIANS:
THE INFLUENCE ON GENERAL HEALTH AND PLAYING PERFORMANCE?
Camilla Marie Larsen1, Lotte Nygaard Andersen1, Helene Paarup2, Eleanor Boyle1,
Birgit Juul-Kristensen1 ,3, Karen Søgaard1
Institute of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, M, Denmark,
Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, C, Denmark,
3
Institute of Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Radiography, 3Bergen University College, Bergen,
Norway
1
2
22
Abstract
Introduction: Musculoskeletal (MSK) symptoms are frequent in orchestral musicians (1,2). A recent study of report-
Patrice Berque1, Heather Gray2 ,3, Angus McFAdyen4
Department of Physiotherapy, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, Scotland, UK,
School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK,
3
Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK, 4AKM-STATS, Glasgow,
Scotland, UK
1
2
Abstract
Purpose and relevance: Focal hand dystonia (FHD) in musicians is a painless task-specific motor disorder characterized by involuntary loss of control of individual finger movements. It is associated with decreased cortical inhibition, and maladaptive cortical reorganization showing fusion of the representational zones of the digits in the primary
somatosensory cortex.1 Research investigating the long-term effects of rehabilitation strategies for FHD is lacking.
The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term effects of a combined behavioural therapy intervention, aimed
at normalising finger movement patterns.
Methods: Eight musicians with FHD volunteered to take part. One year of intensive constraint-induced therapy and
motor control retraining at slow speed were the interventions.2 A quasi-experimental repeated measures (within-subject) design was used, with 9 testing sessions over 4 years. Video recordings of the subjects playing two pieces
were used for data analysis. The Frequency of Abnormal Movements scale (FAM),3 the change in metronome speed
achieved during motor control retraining,4 and two ordinal dystonia evaluation scales (DES) were chosen as outcome
measures. It was hypothesized that there would be significant differences in FAM scores achieved over the 4-year
period.
Results: The results from the two-factor repeated measures ANOVA for the main outcome measure, the FAM scale
scores, revealed that the mean number of abnormal movements per second of instrumental playing decreased sig-
23
nificantly by approximately 80% for both pieces over the 4-year period (F = 7.85, df = 8, p < 0.001). Tukey’s post-hoc
test revealed that statistically significant improvements occurred after 6 months of therapy (p-values between p <
0.001 and p = 0.044). Although the results were not significant between month 12 and follow-up at year 4, the trend
revealed that the progress achieved during the first year of intensive retraining was maintained at year 4.
Conclusions and implications: A 1-year period of intensive task-specific retraining may be a successful long-term
strategy for the treatment of musician’s FHD, with a significant trend towards normalisation of movement patterns
over time. Indeed, the progress achieved during the initial 12-month period was maintained at follow-up at year 4.
Results also suggest that retraining strategies may need to be carried out for at least 6 months before statistically
significant changes are noted.
References
1.Elbert T, Candia V, Altenmüller E, Rau H, Sterr A, Rockstroh B, Pantev C, Taub E:
Alteration of digital representations in somatosensory cortex in focal hand dystonia.
Neuroreport 1998; 9:3571-3575.
2.Berque P, Gray H, Harkness C, McFadyen A: A Combination of Constraint-induced Therapy and Motor Control Retraining in the Treatment of Focal Hand Dystonia in Musicians. Med Probl Perform Art 2010; 25:149-161.
3.Spector JT, Brandfonbrener AG: A new method for quantification of musician’s dystonia: the frequency of
abnormal movements scale. Med Probl Perform Art 2005; 20:157-162.
4.Sakai N: Slow-down exercise for the treatment of focal hand dystonia in pianists. Med Probl Perform Art 2006; 21:25-28.
Scientific 013 Poster presentation
HEALTH SURVEY OF ORCHESTRA MUSICIANS
A PILOT STUDY ON JAZZ MUSICIANS IN A BIG BAND
Joakim Söderena1, Dennis Nyqvist1, Ulrik Röijezon1
Department of Health Sciences, Physiotherapy, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
1
Abstract
Background:Musculoskeletal pain and psychosocial disorders are wide spread in the adult population and have
been reported to be the most common causes for work absenteeism among men and women in Sweden (1). High
prevalence of musculoskeletal and psychosocial complaints have been reported among musicians (2, 3). Most previous research have involved classical musicians, music teachers and students, while little is known about the health
situation among professional jazz musicians.
Objective: The aim was to display the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, hypermobility, health, psychosocial
situation and physical activity among professional jazz musicians in a Swedish big band orchestra.
Method: Professional musicians in one big band orchestra were offered participation. The study had a cross sectional design, where participants completed a questionnaire at one occasion. Musculoskeletal pain was measured with
Nordic Questionnaire; hypermobility with a Swedish version of the Five-part questionnaire; health with SF-12; psychosocial factors with Demand-Control-Support questionnaire, SOC-13 and seven Mood adjectives (scoring 0-10),
where three adjectives were positive and four negative. Physical activity was measured with IPAQ.
Result: Five of ten musicians in the big band orchestra volunteered to participate and all five completed the questionnaire. The participants were all men, 38-50 years of age, playing wind instruments. Two of the five musicians
reported pain within the last year and week, localized to neck, shoulder, arm and upper back. None reported inability
to play at their regular level due to musculoskeletal symptoms. No general hypermobility was found, i.e., no participant scored two or more on the five part questionnaire. Mean values for SF-12 were 52.1 ±5.5 and 49.2 ±8.7 for PCS
and MCS, respectively. Mean values for Demand was 14.8 ±3.0 (7 questions), Control 11.8 ±1.6 (4 questions) and
Support 9.4 ±1.9 (6 questions). Mean index score for SOC was 5.5 ±1.9 (with sum of scores divided with number of
questions). All three positive Mood adjectives were scored relatively high with mean values ranging 5.8-6.8, while
the negative Mood adjectives where scored relatively low with mean values ranging 2.0-3.4. Physical activity at least
once a week on high intensity was reported by four participants, while only one performed daily walks with duration
of ten minutes or more.
Conclusion:A relatively low prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and psychosocial distress where found among
the participants. The small group is a major limitation of the study, why generalizations of results are limited. Future
research with larger groups of jazz musicians is warranted.
References
24
1.AFA Försäkring. Allvarliga arbetsskador och långvarig sjukfrånvaro, 2012.
2.Paarup HM, Baelum J, Holm JW, Manniche C, Wedderkopp N. Prevalence and consequences of musculoskeletal symptoms in symphony orchestra musicians vary by gender: a cross-sectional study. BMCMusculoskeletDisord. 2011 2011;12:223.
3.Holst GJ, Paarup HM, Baelum J. A cross-sectional study of psychosocial work environment and stress in the
Danish symphony orchestras. Int Arch Occup Environ Health, 2012 Aug;85(6):639-49.
Clinical presentations
Clinical 001
MUSIC STUDENTS AND THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE
Kim Eriksen1, Helene M. Paarup2
Royal Academy of Music, Copenhagen, Denmark, 2Odense Universitets Hospital, Odense, Denmark
1
Abstract
Introduction: In the last couple of decades the interest for scientific research of Alexander Technique (AT) has
increased and so has research within musicians’ health. Among musicians AT has been popular for years as a means
to alleviate playing-related musculoskeletal problems and facilitate performance1,2. Many major music conservatories offer AT to their students. Among musicians improvements in performance after AT lessons have been objectively
assessed1,3. AT is known to affect different aspects of motor behavior and can result in changed postural regulation
when standing as well as in increased adaptability of muscle tone - and posture changes and reduced muscle activity
have been demonstrated1,4. Musculoskeletal problems are frequent among professional orchestra musicians with
one-year prevalence rates of more than 80%5,6. The musculoskeletal disorders in professional musicians are often
repetitive strain injuries. The majority of symphony orchestra musicians have experienced that musculoskeletal problems interfere with their music playing5.
Aims: The overall aim was to apply AT on academy music students to direct themselves in their motion pattern while
playing in order to facilitate that they apply as little force as possible when playing and that playing positions are
adjusted to be less strenuous.
Methods: This 12 weeks course in AT with one lesson per week was held at The Royal Danish Academy of Music
in 2012. Mostly 8-10 students were present although 17 had assigned to the course. Students were instrumentalists
and singers from different classes. The AT course was group-based and comprised hands-on guidance as well as
verbal explanation to teach the students how to reduce improper postural and movement habits, and to alter habitual
movement responses to pain into coordinated movements requiring less effort. However, no specific measuring of
any effect of the course was planned on forehand.
Discussion: Based on the consecutive dialogues with the students during the course it turned out that the students
appeared to attend the course for different reasons; some due to having musculoskeletal problems while others
intended to improve their playing. While working with the coordination of their playing positions the sound of their
playing was improved and some experienced less tensed/sore muscles. However, no specific follow-up was planned
to ensure that the students were able to continue improving with their playing positions without the AT teacher.
Objective measures of the effect of AT courses for academy students explored by using qualitative and quantitative
research methods should be performed.
References
1.Valentine et al. The effect of lessons in the Alexander Technique on music performance in high and low stress
situations. Psychol Music 1995;23:129-41.
2.Woodman, Moore. Evidence for the effectiveness of Alexander Technique lessons in medical and health-related conditions: a systematic review. Int J Clin Pract 2012;66:98-112.
3.Jones. Voice production as a function of head balance in singers. J Psychol 1972;82:209-15.
4.Cacciatore et al. Increased dynamic regulation of postural tone through Alexander Technique training.
Hum Mov Sci 2011;30:74-89.
5.Paarup et al. Prevalence and consequences of musculoskeletal symptoms in symphony orchestra musicians vary by gender: a cross-sectional study. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2011;12:223.
6.Leaver et al. Musculoskeletal pain in elite professional musicians from British symphony orchestras.
Occup Med 2011;61:549-55.
Clinical 002
MALIGNANCIES PRESENTING AT A PERFORMING ARTS MEDICINE CLINIC
John Macfarlane, Boni Rietveld
MC Haaglanden, The Hague, The Netherlands
Abstract
We report here four performing artists who were referred for an opinion about their musculo-skeletal complaints, and
this resulted in 4 widely differing diagnoses.
A: 22 year-old male amateur musician with 3 months of low back pain, worse after activity but also occurring at night.
The pain was central and did not radiate to the buttocks or legs. There were no paraesthesiae. He denied skin, joint
25
and eye complaints and had no morning stiffness. Two weeks later he presented with a painful testis. This led to the
diagnosis of testicular cancer with para-aortic metastases for which he received an operation and chemotherapy with
success.
B: 50 year old amateur ballroom dancer who had 3 weeks’ pain in the lower back with some radiation to both legs
but no paraesthesiae He complained of nocturnal pain but no morning stiffness. He denied skin, joint and eye
complaints. There was no compression pain. Standard radiographs showed an compression fracture of T 12 . The
subsequent MRI suggested a tumor, later confirmed to be a non-Hodgkin Triple B lymphoma for which he is receiving
radiotherapy, a corset and chemotherapy.
C: 58 year old dance teacher (and smoker) with pain in the right elbow two months after heavy physical effort. The
pain was mainly localized to the medial epicondyle but radiated to both the upper and lower arm and was made
worse by use. A radiograph of the right elbow disclosed a lytic lesion in the distal humerus. A thorax radiograph
showed an abnormal hilus and some atelectasis. Lung carcinoma was confirmed by bronchoscopy and she has
received radiotherapy to the humerus and lung and she is at present in a stable condition after 3 chemotherapies.
D: 33 year old professional singer who complained of intermittent pain in the left hip area, gradually worsening over
3.5 years with increasing difficulty in mobility but experiencing temporary relief by repeated manual therapy. A radiograph showed extensive lysis around the acetabulum and a speckled appearance of the os ischium. An urgent MRI
confirmed the suspicion of a chondrosarcoma in the os ischium with invasion of the small pelvis. She has undergone
several extensive operations including for recurrences.. For the last 4 years she has been in good health.
Important clinical lessons can be learned from these patients.
Even healthy performing artists with musculo-skeletal complaints, seemingly attributable to poor posture or overuse,
may have an underlying malignancy.
References
Macfarlane JD, Rietveld ABM. Malignancies in a Performing Arts Medicine Clinic. Clin Rheum 2013 (accepted).
Clinical 003
THE PREVENTION OF COMPLAINTS IN MUSICIANS
MC Haaglanden, The Hague, The Netherlands
Abstract
The experience acquired in 20 years of seeing musicians at a performing arts medical centre enables us to formulate
some ideas on the prevention of complaints in performers. It is well accepted that prevention has three categories
and it is from the secondary(preventing injury worsening) and tertiary (learning from injury) situations that advice can
be formulated.
Prevention is in mind when choosing an instrument. Clearly age and size are important when viewing the instrumentalist-interface. The weight and size must be taken into account and there are now many aids and possibilities for
adaptation. Recently more attention has been paid to keyboard span.
A common fault in musicians is bad posture; in particular the head and shoulders are too far forward. In the approach
to this problem then the results obtained with Feldenkrais Method, Alexander Technique and Mensendieck therapy
are encouraging. There are several factors we have learned by experience that are often present when a musician
complains. These include excessive playing, a new teacher, a new technique, a different instrument or new (more
difficult) repertoire.
There is physical effort involved in making music. Heart rates increase considerably during practice, rehearsal, and
concert, up to 79% of the maximum theoretical heart rate and the energy expenditure can rise by 32% even when
sitting. In addition the respiratory rate, blood pressure and blood lactate concentrations rise as well as the perceived
degree of exertion. An obvious overlap with sporting activities exists and aerobic training has certainly been beneficial.
HYPERMOBILITY AND THE MUSICIAN
MCHaaglanden, The Hague, The Netherlands
Abstract
It is self-evident that hypermobility might be an asset for dancers. For musicians this is less certain. Of course a high
degree of dexterity is required but this does not necessarily have to be linked to any hypermobility. Indeed, in our
experience, hypermobility can be detrimental for optimal performance.
First we should consider what is meant by hypermobility. It is common practice to use the Beighton Hypermobility
Criteria (1) . The scale is from 0- 9 and, if limited to only the arms, then the scale is 0 to 6. For the majority of musicians the Beighton score is often irrelevant because their increased laxity occurs in one or more of the following joints
:- 1st carpo-metacarpal (cmc), 1st metacarpal-phalangeal (mcp), inter-phalangeal joint of the thumb, the proximaland/or distal inter-phalangeal (pips and dips). None of these joints is specifically included in the Beighton scoring
scheme. It is quite possible for a musician to have a low Beighton score and still be very hypermobile in the hands.
Though the majority of complaints in musicians concern the upper extremity, the legs can be affected:- ankle instability, hypermobility and muscle weakness have been seen in organists and drummers.
The development of the Brighton criteria for the better recognition of the (benign) hypermobility syndrome has resulted in an improved assessment of many with chronic pain (2). The minor criteria include features more reminiscent of
such connective tissue disorders as Ehlers -Danlos and Marfan’s syndrome. The specific joints mentioned above are
not named but the term arthralgia can surely include those listed.
The consequences of hypermobility for the musician include muscle weakness, tendon irritation, (sub)-luxations, pain
and premature arthrosis.
The treatment options are limited but even just providing information can be beneficial. There is a place for muscle
strengthening exercises (core-stability, shoulder stabilization, hand physiotherapy) and various orthotics such as
thumb base splints and silver-ring splints. Attention should be paid to posture, both with and without the instrument.
The management of pain requires teamwork and sometimes help from a psychologist.
References
1.Beighton PH Horan F. Orthopedic aspects of the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
J Bone Joint Surg [Br]. 1969; 51: 444-453.
2.Grahame R. The revised (Brighton 1998) criteria for the diagnosis of benign joint hypermobility syndrome (BJHS).
J Rheumatol. 2000;27:1777-1779
Clinical 005
MUSICIANS AND HEARING PROBLEMS
Kerstin Dahmén, Andreas Sjögren
Abstract
What is the influence of subjective hearing problems as tinnitus and hyperacusis and how do we cope with them and
what type of treatment can we offer them?
As we already know through the result of studies about hearing problems of Kim Kähäri the subjective problems are
usually more common among the musicians than in the general population, and more common than hearing loss.
In Artist- och Musikerhälsan we have also gone through a questionnaire among orchestra musicians in south of Sweden (not published) where we saw the same result as of Kähäri.
And there are often problems of the sound level of the hall where musicians are playing and an impressive stress
level. Discussion about sound levels that the ear can stand and protective possibilities.
There are other aspects which deserve attention such as attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, music performance
anxiety, focal dystonia, hypermobility, arthrosis; for some of these preventive measures can be taken .A common
complaint in musicians concerns myalgias in the lower arms; this is often linked to muscle contractures and sometimes to a reduced independence of the flexors of the fingers.
Clinical 006
This cumulative experience has resulted in an information sheet which sets out various pieces of advice in relation
to practising techniques, posture, stretching exercises, aerobic training and giving up smoking. Top music-making
is similar to top-sport and lessons can be learned from the sports-world. Perhaps the medical and psychological
screening of future music students is the next development.
Grete Ege Gronlund1, 2
References
26
Clinical 004
Rietveld ABM, Macfarlane JD, Haas GJF de. Some thoughts on the prevention of complaints in musicians and dancers. Clin Rheum 2013 (accepted).
HOW TO PLAY MUSIC IN HARMONY WITH YOUR BODY- MUSIC PHYSIOLOGY,
A PREVENTION SUBJECT TO AVOID STRAIN INJURIES IN MUSICIANS
The Grieg Academy, Bergen, Norway, 2Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
1
Abstract
Introduction: The subject Music physiology was developed in 1971 by physiotherapist Lulle Lærum at Bergen
music conservatory. She formed the subject on what she experienced was the need for the young music students
that suffered from different kinds of strain injuries. In addition to a general education on the subject she also gave the
students individually hours.
27
Purpose: The purpose for the subject is to teach the students what to do to avoid strain injuries in order to strenght
their performance and hopefully be able to have a long career as musicians.
Method: It is a practical subject where the students learn different exercises to use before, during and after playing
music. We also focus on the initial positions and the different working positions for the different instruments. The students get theoretical information on different health topics to increase their understanding about how it effects them
to play music at this high level. The subject also discuss health issues and there are individual consultations where
the students bring their instruments.
Results: Students evaluate the subject each year. I now present some sentences from their evaluation on the subject
of 2012:
“I am glad the subject was so practically since it is a short course. It made me able to get better routines of rehearsal
at The Grieg academy”.
“I warm up the whole body before I start to play and I see that it make my rehearsal more effective.”
“After the education I vary my position when I rehearse. I change between to sit and to stand, so I don`t use the same
muscles through the rehearsal. I also take more breaks when I play my instrument.”
“It was nice having the individual consulting. I got some feedback concerning my sitting position and way of playing
that was important to me”.
Conclusion: The students give positive evaluation of the course. It turned out that many of them already had problems when they began at The Grieg Academy. In order to primary prevent playing related injuries it is important that
musicians are taught to play in harmony with their body when they start to play an instrument.
Keywords: prevention, Music physiology, physiotherapy, strain injuries, musicians
References
Holst GJ, Paarup HM, Baelum J. A cross-sectional study of psychosocial work environment and stress in the Danish
symphony orchestras. Int Arch Occup Environ Health, 2012 Aug;85(6):639-49.
Paarup HM, Baelum J, Holm JW, Manniche C, Wedderkopp N.Prevalence and consequenses of musculoskeletal
symtoms in symphony orchestra musicians vary by gender: a cross sectional study. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders,
2011 Oct 7;12:223
Dommerholt J.Performing arts medicine-Instrumentalist musicians Part 1-General considerations. Journal of Bodywork & Movement Therapies. 2009 Oct;13(4):311-9
Foxman I, Burgel BJ, Musician Health and Safety. Preventing Playing-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders. AAOHN
Journal 2006,54(7):309-316.
Samama, A. Muscle control for musicians. 2nd ed. Alma Mater Publishers. Bergen,1993.
Clinical 007
THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE FOR MUSICIANS
Mary McGovern
Alexander Technique Private Practice, Frederiksberg, Denmark
Abstract
28
The Alexander Technique is a practical form of health education. It has a substantial history of helping musicians
reduce injury and fatigue and improve technique, physical freedom, musical freedom, stamina and tonal quality.
Teachers of the Alexander Technique are trained to observe the influence of people’s use of themselves upon function, especially on the functioning of the postural mechanisms and the mechanisms of respiration. By means of the
skilled use of his hands and verbal instructions, the teacher helps the pupil to change inappropriate ways of using
himself so that he lengthens in stature rather than shortens, so that he widens rather than narrows, so that he frees
up rather than being stiff. The teacher does this by conveying sensory experiences that physically demonstrate the
meaning of the words he uses in teaching.
The relationship between the head, neck and back is of central importance to human balance, coordination and
movement. Frederick Matthias Alexander (1869-1955), after whom the Alexander Technique is named, described this
relationship as “the primary control” since it precedes and determines the coordination and use of all the other parts
of the body.
This primary control is of great significance to instrumentalists who want to hold their instrument without compromising the functioning of their organism. “Misuse of the primary control [...] is always reflected by misuses somewhere
else; this appears in the form of awkwardness, fatigue, and Wilfred Barlow, a London physician and a pupil of Alexander, calls “maldistributed muscle tension,” or overtension at one place accompanied by undertension (lack of tone) at
another (Jones 1976, 184).”
Violinists and violists, for example, are faced with particular problems in relation to the primary control, since the
head, neck and shoulder are directly involved in supporting the instrument. If the player’s head is placed on the chin
rest in such a way that the neck loses its natural length and freedom, the body will follow by decreasing in stature. If,
on the other hand, the head is freely balanced on a fully lengthened neck, the body will continue to lengthen despite
the burden of the weight of the instrument on the left side and the considerable burden of holding both arms up. This
expanded, buoyant state of the organism is often compromised by the force of our subconscious, detrimental habits.
These habits can be changed, and the Alexander Technique can make an important contribution to the process.
References
Alexander, Frederick Matthias. 1932. Reprint. The Use of the Self. Chaterson Ltd., London
Carrington, Walter. 1989. On Categorizing the Alexander Technique. The Alexander Journal no. 10.
Jones, Frank Pierce. 1976. Body Awareness in Action. Shocken Books Inc., New York.
McCullough, Carol Porter. 1996. The Alexander Technique and the String Pedagogy of Paul Rolland. Research Paper,
Arizona State University, USA.
Barlow, Wilfred. 1973. The Alexander Principle. Arrow Books, London.
Clinical 008
THE HEALTH CARE OF THE MUSICIANS - THE FINNISH PERSPECTIVE
Miikka Peltomaa
University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
Abstract
The history of the musicians´ medicine is probably as old as is the history of the musicians. However the organized
and systematic professional activity in musicians´ health care is not older than a few decades. In Finland regular
education of musicians´s medicine begun in 1997. The Finnish Musicians´ Medicine Association was established in
2000 and today the association has more than 300 members including medical doctors, physiotherapists, nurses and
- most importantly – musicians and students. The association organizes regular educational meetings for its members
and promotes musicians´ health care in many ways in Finland. The presentation gives an overview of the past and
presence of the Finnish musicians´ medicine and provokes ideas to stimulate Nordic collaboration in this field.
Clinical 009
ESTABLISHMENT OF A CLINIC FOR MUSICIANS AT A UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
Peder Jest1 ,2
Board, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Region Syddanmark, Denmark,
Dept. Occupational and Environmental Diseases, Odense University Hospital, Denmark
1
2
Abstract
The establishment of a clinic for health problems in performing artists (initially a clinic for diseases that afflict professional musicians) requires the presence of certain key elements; There must be a demand for the clinical solution;
clinical expertise in multiple specialties is a necessity and scientific research must support the evidence-based
clinical areas. In order to ensure the qualitative aspects of daily business as well as a continued development of the
area, it is necessary to work with a clinical department with functions in daily clinical work combined with knowledge
of organisational/industrial psychology, social issues and occupational and environmental diseases.
Odense University Hospital has collaborated with the University of Southern Denmark in the establishment of a clinic
for performing artists (musicians) starting June this year. The proces that forms the basis for the clinic hinges on
specific managerial tasks. The road from idea to reality is long and winding, and involves complex research regarding many and varied issues, and at different levels. Focused efforts must be directed towards: planning that involves
many people with differing interests; financial decisions; negotiations among the involved clinical specialties; good
physical environments; employment of clinicians and researchers; strategic desicions on the board of directors and
political acceptance of an unusual health area (1, 2,3).
Applied leadership and managerial obligations involved in this highly complex proces will be presented, and future
possibilities will be discussed.
References
1. Strube H. dansk specialklinik for musikere [A Danish Specialized Clic for Musicians]. Musikeren.02 jan 2012.
2. Scmidt JH. Hearing changes in classical musicians and risk factors. [Ph.D. Thesis]. Odense, Denmark.
University of Southern Denmark ;2011
3. Paarup HM. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study of musculoskeletal problems, stress, and psychosocial work environment among symphony orchestra musicians in Denmark. [Ph.D. Thesis].
Odense, Denmark University of Southern Denmark; 2012
29
Clinical 010
ARTIST- & MUSIKERHÄLSAN - DESCRIBING THE PROCESSES OF TEAMWORK
TO HELP STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANS WITH INJURIES,
BOTH IN TERMS OF REHABILITATION AND PREVENTION.
Karin Engquist, Ing-Marie Olsson, Inga-Britt Niemand
Abstract
The base for the teamwork is a psychosomatic perspective (1, 2,3) and how the stress reaction influence the individual. When the individuals coming for the first consultation it´s important to listen to their story about the problem, how
they deal with the situation and how they react and which strategies they are using. The functioning in the playing
situation with the instrument is also important. The team include different competences as medical doctor, physiotherapist with competence in body awareness, psychologist, behavior scientist, Alexander teacher and audiologist
and also contacts with teachers of different instrument.
Most common problem for musicians are pain and for the professionals located in neck and shoulders and for the
students pain in forearms and hands is also common. Performing anxiety and subjective hearing problems are other
problems we have to deal with.
Risk factors for developing pain are stress (4, 5, 6, 7) without recovery, poor ergonomics that is poor position and/
or unbalanced movements (8)together with the instrument, high demands from their own thoughts or high demands
from the environment.
The plan for rehabilitation is always individual from what we know about how the person deals with practice routines,
training for needed body stabilization and smooth and free movement. Knowledge of daily life style and the meaning
of stress is also a common subject.
Preventive strategies including seminars at different schools and working places, where we are concentrating about
the meaning of stress and ergonomics together with the instruments. The experiences with the professional musicians are that the preventive knowledge is most interesting for them, when musicians have got into troubles. At the
Academy of Music in Malmö the physioterapist has courses in ergonomics. The Alexander technics are very useful as
a preventive strategies.
Musical Performance
Music is performed by the local ensemble Kristallkvartetten (the Chrystal Quartet). All members in Kristallkvartetten
have studied classical music at the School of Music in Piteå, Luleå University of Technology.
Various repertoires are performed during the Conference, including a lunch concert on Thursday 13. The lunch concert includes novel art music with strong association to the area of Norrbotten, specifically written for Kristallkvarten
by composers who are former students at the School of Music in Piteå. Music which has been written with support
from Swedish Arts Council, Norrbottens läns landsting and Kluster.
Further information about Kristallkvartetten is found at www.kristallkvartetten.blogspot.se
References
1.Downing G. Kroppen och ordet: kroppsorienterad psykoterapi- teoretisk bakgrund och klinisk tillämpning.
Borås: Natur och Kultur; 1997.
2.Bader Johansson C, Elmgren Frykberg G. Rörelse och interaktion: Om grundmotorik, stress och självreglering. Lund: Studentlitteratur; 2013.
3.Roxendal G. Ett helhetsperspektiv- sjukgymnastik inför framtiden. Lund: Studentlitteratur; 1987.
4.Theorell T, red. Psykosocial miljö och stress. Lund: Studentlitteratur; 2003.
5.Green B. with Gallwey W. T. The Inner Game of Music: New York: Doubleday; 1986
6.Railo W. Bäst när det gäller: Farsta: Sveriges Riksidrottsförbund; 1986
7.Salmon P.G. & Meyer R.G. Notes from the Green room: Toronto: Lexington Books; 1992
8. Dropsy J. Den harmoniska kroppen: en osynlig övning. Borås: Natur och Kultur; 1993.
Sponsors and Collaborators
Finally, a great Thank You to our sponsor and collaborators, with whom we share this important interest in Musicians´ Health and Performance! Without your support we could not have realized this Conference.
Thanks to:
30
n
Swedish Council for Working Life and Social Research
n
Musikerförbundet
n
SYMF, Sveriges yrkesmusikerförbund
n
Norrbottens läns landsting
n
Qualisys AB
SVERIGES YRKESMUSIKERFÖRBUND
31
Luleå University of Technology 2013
32
Luleå University of Technology
971 87 Luleå, Sweden +46 (0)920 49 10 00
www.ltu.se

Musicians´ Health and Performance 1st Nordic Conference

Transcription

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