Musicians, it’s time we face the music. We need to work out. No, we don’t have to be extreme about it, and we don’t have to be ripped, but we need strength, stability, and movement capacity. Caroline Juster shares her perspective, personal story, and some very approachable tips for getting the most out of your body and life through movement. Check it out!
Read MoreBreath is such an overlooked topic in the music world. Of course, musicians who need to breathe to create sound think about it often, but HOW you breathe has an immense impact on much more than just the sound you make. Dr. Xenia-Pestova Bennett examines some of the positive ways we can influence our human (and music-making) experience through breathing. Read on to find out more.
Read MoreAustin Pancner of The Functional Musician shares some insight into why warming up and cooling down during a practice session is key to maintaining good playing health and keeping injuries at bay. He includes an accessible routine if you’re looking for some easy-to-use exercises to take into the practice room with you now.
Read MoreDr. Brianne Borden breaks down a few simple ways musicians can use yoga to prepare the mind and body for successful music-making and peak performance. This is not an intimidating asana prescription, it is simple and applicable to all musicians (and people) looking for ease and awareness and eventually control. This is a fantastic resource for those looking for a quick reset that can be used anywhere at any time.
Read MoreThis is a review of Angela McCuiston’s book, “The Musician’s Essential Exercises.” We did the movements while prepping this review and are still doing them now. Check out our thoughts on trying these moves and incorporating them into your busy musical lives. From warm-ups and stretches to self-myofascial release, foam rolling, stretching, core exercises, corrective exercises, and more, McCuiston covers the essentials of what musicians need to know about moving their bodies.
Read MoreA summary of the article originally published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. We provide helpful links to see the poses used in this study about chronic neck pain (something many musicians struggle with) and read about how to do them safely. Yoga is a beneficial tool for combating discomfort and much more, and we are excited to highlight published research on the topic.
Read MoreGuest article by violist and strength trainer and Guild Certified Feldenkrais practitioner, Dr. Rachel Galvin, about how to find good posture using The Feldenkrais Method®.
Read MoreCheck out our first guest post written by the inimitable Angela McCuiston, creator of Music Strong. She debunks all of the myths and hangups musicians might have about weight lifting and leaves no excuse to take care of your body.
Read MoreHere is a quick, all levels 11min warm-up that you can do almost anywhere. In this session, we will focus on spinal mobility, shoulder mobility, and finding length in the sides of your body and hip flexors. It is a perfect addition to your morning routine or pre-practice routine.
Read MoreThese 3 simple yoga postures provide so much relief for anyone and the benefits are certainly not limited to upper string players. The prevalence of pit orchestra playing at this time of the year increases significantly and everyone deserves to have a few tools to combat the aches and pains associated with many hours of work this holiday season. Consider this post a gift to yourself. Enjoy!
Read MoreBack pain is the leading cause of disability in the world, and it is estimated that 80% of the population will experience back pain at some point in their lives! This article looks at one common contributing factor and a simple and practical approach to back pain resolution.
Read MoreThis quick upper back reset is great to include in your regular care routine. It is simple, fast, and effective. If you are experiencing pain or tension in your upper back, shoulders, neck, or elbows, or have any hand numbness try this out.
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