Instrumentalists and singers make use of their bodies in unique and demanding ways when they practice and perform. After rehearsing and practicing for hours a day over several years, a seemingly innocuous habit can become a problematic physical problem, limiting a musician’s technical possibilities or even causing lasting physical harm. It is our hope that students integrate a solid understanding of how their bodies — and their mental state — relate to their music making and what is required to maintain good health as a musician.
In addition to this site, check out the musician health and wellness bulletin board on the second floor of Christiansen Hall of Music (CHM) between rooms 225 and 228. The content on this site was initially generated by St. Olaf music students Eric Broker ’15 and Jake Meyer ’15, under the auspices of St. Olaf’s Collaborative Undergraduate Research and Inquiry (CURI) program.
If you have any questions or concerns that are not addressed in these resources feel free to contact members of the Musician Wellness Committee for additional assistance: Kathryn Ananda-Owens (piano), Karl Wiederwohl (trombone/euphonium), Marita Stryker (voice), and Ellsie Covert ’25.
Disclaimer
The St. Olaf College Music Department supports the quality of this resource as a guide for concepts relating to musician health. However, none of the material presented in this resource should be construed as endorsed or recommended by St. Olaf College. If you suspect you have sustained an injury, please seek medical attention with a certified physician.
Protecting Your Hearing Every Day