The musician's survival manual : a guide to preventing and treating injuries in instrumentalists / by Richard Norris ; edited by Deborah Torch.

Author/creator Norris, Richard
Other author Torch, Deborah, editor.
Format Book
Publication Info[Place of publication not identified] : International Conference of Symphony and Opera Musicians ; Saint Louis : MMB Music, ©1993.
Descriptionv, 134 pages : illustrations ; 23 cm
Subjects

Contents Overuse injuries: recognition and prevention -- Nonsurgical treatment of upper extremity disorders in instrumentalists -- Problems in the neck region -- Thoracic outlet syndrome -- Back and seating problems in musicians -- Shoulder problems -- Cubital tunnel syndrome: nerve entrapment at the elbow -- Carpal tunnel syndrome -- De Quervain's disease: tendinitis at the base of the thumb -- Problems of flutists -- The "lazy finger" syndrome: tendon variations of the pinkie -- Focal dystonia (occupational cramp) -- Therapeutic exercise for musicians -- Returning to play after injury -- Stage fright -- Appendix A: Music medicine self-history form ; Appendix B: Performing arts medicine clinics and practitioners ; Appendix C: Arts medicine organizations and publications.
Abstract We who play instruments know that there are few experiences in life that can be as fulfilling as making music. When giving to an audience, we are able to have positive influence not only on others, but also ourselves. When there is a synthesis of physical action, emotion, technique, and thought, music-making can reach incredible heights. But often our goals are thwarted by physical limitations and pain. For decades, musicians have recognized the many factors--some unpleasant--that are essential to mastering an instrument: diligent practice, organization, discipline, travel to good schools, purchase of fine equipment, overcoming technical obstacles, isolation and/or loneliness, performance anxiety, etc. We seem to be able to deal with these. But it is only very recently that we are beginning to acknowledge another essential component: treating our bodies as part of our instruments, with the goal of preventing physical injury. Thanks to doctors like Richard Norris who are working in the new field of performing arts medicine, we can now improve our physical approaches to our instruments with knowledge of how our bodies do the demanding tasks we ask of them. For many of us, a dream has come true. Musicians, both performers and educators, can now become more knowledgeable through conferences, publications, seminars, and book such as Dr. Norris's guide. We can now work towards prevention rather than correction. You will find, as I have, that this down-to-earth survival manual is an invaluable resource and took in our striving and yearning for freedom to play. --Janet Horvath, Director, 'Playing (less) Hurt' Conference Series, Associate Principal Cellist, Minnesota Orchestra.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references (pages 125-132).
LCCN 93077080
ISBN0918812747
ISBN9780918812742

Availability

Library Location Call Number Status Item Actions
Music Closed Stacks - Ask at Circulation Desk RC965.P46 N67 1993 ✔ Available Place Hold