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Musicians under the microscope

The physiology of violin playing

VIOLIN and viola players of all levels are being invited to take part in a new study conducted by postgraduate student Dr Alison Loram.

Alison, who trained as a violinist at the Royal College of Music in London, is looking into the muscular activities involved in playing the violin/viola and how these may relate to playing-specific musculoskeletal problems.

She believes that more information regarding underlying causes of musculoskeletal problems related to instrumental playing may help musicians to overcome and avoid injuries.

The study, a collaboration between the Institute for Biomedical Research into Human Movement and Health IRM and University College London, is open to any student, professional or experienced amateur, regardless of whether or not they have playing-related problems, and will involve attending one individual two-hour session at MMU.

Movement analysis

The sessions will involve musicians standing and playing their instrument for very short periods whilst their muscular activity and movements are recorded using ultrasound scanning and movement analysis equipment.

Alison believes that violinists and viola players taking part will benefit from the insights gained.

She said: “You will have the opportunity to gain some insight as to how your neck and shoulders muscles are involved in supporting and playing your instrument, the bodily movements you make, and how these may be optimised to enhance your playing and reduce or prevent muscular tension.”

For further details or to sign up for the study, please contact Dr Alison Loram alison@loram8.freeserve.co.uk or on 07866 987976.

Published Friday, 17th August 2012