Someone who feels at home with their instrument can retain the pleasure of playing for themselves and in a group. This is particularly important for young musicians, as active music-making has positive effects on the personal and intellectual development of children and young people. Active music-making is considered to be a hobby that strengthens personality, creativity and social skills, and for musicians is a job in which one can extensively pursue personal aptitudes and passions.

At the same time, playing an instrument is an intensive physical and mental exercise. The many possible nuances in tempo, articulation and dynamics to which the instrumentalist or singer gives his or her totally personal touch, put very varied demands on the musician’s body.

Well trained muscles, a good posture and a balanced frame of mind have immediate positive effects on the performance of the musician. A musician who is aware of the physical aspect of music-making and the right attitude for him can achieve a better musical performance and most of all feels more comfortable with his instrument. Even the smallest imbalance in the musculoskeletal system can have a negative effect on the quality of playing.

Physical awareness, fitness and physical and mental balance play a crucial role in being able to pursue one’s musical interests and abilities trouble-free for life.

For this reason more and more facilities specialising in medicine and physiology for musicians, or dealing with music-related illnesses, have appeared over the last few years. Our Centre for Music and Health focuses first and foremost on keeping musicians healthy.