Strength and Conditioning Considerations for the Orchestral Musician: A Practical Approach

Abstract

ABSTRACT Playing a musical instrument necessitates stability in the hands, neck, shoulders, and trunk, involving both isotonic and isometric movements, muscular endurance, and various other physical demands. Musicians, especially those engaged in professional or educational pursuits, often dedicate several hours each day to practicing and performing. Despite the substantial physical challenges associated with musical performance, the realm of performing arts medicine lacks comprehensive research and practical methodologies tailored to adequately address the conditioning requirements of musicians. Musculoskeletal discomfort is prevalent among professional musicians, predominantly affecting the upper body. Instrumental players encounter issues such as musculoskeletal overuse, nerve entrapment, focal dystonia, and other playing-related musculoskeletal disorders, which can persist for extended periods. Consequently, this article aims to present a specialized strength and conditioning regimen tailored for instrumental musicians participating in large music ensembles, specifically symphony orchestras and wind bands. The guide will identify the mechanics inherent to playing these instruments and the prevalent injuries associated with them. Using this information, a strength and conditioning protocol suitable for the application within a symphony orchestra and wind band music classrooms will be presented.