Support for Musicians
Executive Summary
Just like students athletes, musical students train and practice to perfect their skill and mastery. Learning how to incorporate wellness and healthy behaviors is critical to all musicians. It is also important to share tools and information to help students avoid common playing-related injuries such as neuromusculosketal issues and hearing problems.
Promoting Holistic Well-Being for Music Students
Clinical and wellness staff will work hand-in-hand with music school faculty to promote a culture of wellness that supports the development of long and rich musical careers. The program will emphasize providing music students with education and resources for nutrition, physical activity, stress reduction, healthy sleep habits and incorporating good decision-making for positive behaviors. In addition, support will be provided to teach relaxation techniques and improved posture and physical coordination.
Key Components
- 21st Century (21CM) student wellness consultations scheduled for August 2015.
- Incoming 21CM freshman will have a consultation at student health services.
- Introduction to a health care provider trained in treatment of voice / performance conditions.
- Review of prevention strategies and related resource information (aligned with compliance requirements).
- Provide tools (examples: performance-grade ear plugs, recommended exercises) to increase awareness/ prevention.
- Review of complete medical history (including pre-existing conditions, injuries, etc.); develop individual Wellness Plan for students who may be considered at higher risk for injury.
- Information would supplement medical files of incoming freshman (maintained on the electronic medical record system implemented and managed by Hendricks Regional Health at the DePauw Student Health Services Clinic).
Wellness Programming for Music Students
School of Music students will have the opportunity to participate in ongoing workshops facilitated by Hendricks Regional Health in topics identified by the wellness planning group (not yet formed). School of Music student participants will have the ability to work with a Hendricks Regional Health staff member to identify topics for the workshops held during the 2015-2016 academic year.
Wellness Training for Music School Faculty
School of Music faculty will receive training from a Hendricks Regional Health provider specializing in treatment of voice/ instrumental performance injuries in terms of wellness, prevention strategies and how to refer for further treatment resources. The training will build upon the current education provided at the start of the academic year. School of Music faculty will have opportunities to participate in 21CM Wellness workshops during the academic year. The goal for 2015-2016 is to have one workshop each semester, during the Wednesday recital hour. Topics will be determined through input from School of Music faculty and collaboration with Hendricks Regional Health staff members.