The Physical and Mental Wellness of String Instrumentalists (2024)

Student(s):  Alyssa Spina

Project Mentor(s):  Brianne Borden

Poster

Concern for physical and mental wellness of musicians has grown lately in both the musical and medical fields. Addressing performance anxiety, reducing injuries, and developing healthy practices are crucial for a rewarding musical career. String instrumentalists are particularly susceptible to physical injuries due to the demanding nature of performance on their instruments. Prolonged intensity in various playing styles can lead to imbalanced movements and unhealthy habits. An anonymous survey conducted among the Crane School of Music string students and professors highlighted a lack of wellness focus within their curriculum. Integrating education about body mechanics and mental well-being can help musicians develop healthier habits and promote personal growth. In conjunction with medical and scholarly sources, this survey and related research shows that string musicians, when educated on how their body and mind work with their instruments, can transform unhealthy habits into an enriching path of growth in performing music.