Health and Wellness

Health and Wellness for Music Students

Students participating in music classes, music ensembles and applied lessons, as well as faculty and staff within the music department, should be aware of the potential for bodily injury when listening, rehearsing, and performing music. Instrumental musicians, or musicians who work primarily on computers, are at risk for repetitive motion injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and bursitis). Similarly, demands placed on singers’ voices can cause them to suffer from vocal fatigue, anxiety, throat tension, and pain. Musicians at all levels can suffer from repetitive stress injuries, neuromuscular conditions or dystonias, and psychological issues including severe performance anxiety. Developing healthy practice habits, practicing good auditory health, and maintaining musculoskeletal health are essential for maintaining an active and effective career in music. Additionally, music students are encouraged to wear hearing protection in all rehearsals, applied lessons, and concerts. For more, see the resources below.

• NASM-PAMA Student Information Sheet on Neuromusculoskeletal Health
• NASM-PAMA Student Information Sheet on Vocal Health
• NASM-PAMA Sheet on Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
• NASM-PAMA Protect Your Hearing
• Performance Anxiety
• The Role of Rest