A new and free workshop for musician’s physiotherapy will be held at the Guelph Youth Music Centre (GYMC) on June 20 at 10:30am.
Injuries and pain are not commonly known outside of the music realm. However, they are not new. Playing an instrument, singing, or even conducting all contributes to injuries and pain due to consistent movements and positions.
“People who play instruments are rarely taught how to care for their bodies,” commented Doris Folkens, the registered physiotherapist who will run the workshop at the GYMC. “Athletes are taught the importance of stretching, listening to their bodies and paying attention to their health, but this isn’t a common occurrence for musicians even though they can sustain similar pains and injuries. My goal with this workshop is to open discussion amongst musicians to learn about their health and how to care for their bodies, as well as to learn from the musicians in terms of what kind of health questions they have and if they have experienced pain due to their musical endeavours.”
The workshop will focus on the importance of warming up, living a healthy lifestyle, taking breaks, posture and to pay attention to health and well-being. In particular, the workshop will review common issues with the spine, arm and wrist, and shoulder to provide recommendations to prevent injuries and pain to these areas.
Vocal health will also be a topic discussed. Common problems are dry vocal cords, throat clearing and caffeine. The workshop will provide recommendations on what to watch for and how to prevent issues from occurring.
Registration for the workshop is open for youth (late teens-early 20s) and is limited.
Interested musicians should register early by calling the GYMC at 519-837-1119.
