As musicians, we use our bodies in very specific ways as we hone our craft as students and perform for a lifetime as professionals. It is crucial, therefore, that we be aware of the physical hazards that musicians face on a daily basis and that we make appropriate and well-informed decisions to protect our bodies. The School of Church Music pledges to support you in this endeavor through education, guidance, and in providing a safe environment for music studies.
Perhaps the most important physical damage that we all potentially face is the loss of hearing. Hearing loss is devastating to anyone, but even more so to those who depend on making and hearing sound as their livelihood. An information pamphlet concerning hearing loss is available here, and we encourage all students to read it carefully and follow its suggestions. Many of you may already suffer hearing loss and may not even be aware of it. By the time hearing loss has become noticeable, much irreparable damage has been done. It is important to limit your exposure to loud sound on a regular basis. If you believe any environment on campus is aurally unhealthy, please discuss this with your ensemble director, private teacher, or music administrator for a possible remedy.
Each performing discipline has its potential hazards, whether it’s vocal nodules for singers or tendinitis for pianists. We encourage you to be aware of any pain you experience as you practice or perform. Your private teacher can help guide you to appropriate solutions. It is important not to delay seeking help before permanent damage takes place.
Additional online resources can be found here that will help you in your journey of becoming a safe and healthy musician. These resources include a bibliography of materials available in Bowld Music Library and links to websites of organizations concerned with medical issues of performing musicians and websites with specialized information on these issues. It is important that you become well informed of risks and solutions and that you assume an active role in staying healthy for a lifetime of music making.