ֱ Is Revolutionizing Musicians’ Wellness
When a ֱ Buffaloes football player gets injured, coach Deion Sanders enlists a team of professionals to ensure a swift recovery. That’s what professor James Brody does with students at the College of Music’sMusicians’ Wellness Program (MWP).
that90% of professional musicians experience playing-related pain or injuries due to misuse or overuse, and80% of college-aged musicians report stress, anxiety or depression tied to their craft.
In response, Brody founded the MWP in 2003 to help students prevent and recover from injuries, sustain peak performance and maintain robust mental health throughout their careers.
“It became glaringly obvious this was a necessity when students came to me with injuries 20 years ago,” said Brody. “I was committed to finding ways to make a difference.”
The MWP was among the first of its kind, predating the National Association of Schools of Music’s 2005 mandate requiring music programs to address wellness. Since its inception, Brody and the MWP have expanded services and recently shared their work at three international conferences.
The program teaches performance psychology and exercise techniques for breathing, hearing and vocal health. It also includes on-staff therapist Matthew Tomatz, who provides therapy sessions to support students’ emotional well-being, including managing performance anxiety.
After 47 years of teaching, Brody will retire as director of the MWP on July 31, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to positively influence the health of College of Music students, faculty and staff — and wellness aspirants across the globe.
“The fact that we’ve already helped so many to continue to do what they love is truly gratifying,” he said.
With a search for a new director underway, Brody hopes the program will receive expanded funding to introduce initiatives like a certificate in musicians’ health, onsite physical therapists and medical professionals and hearing protection devices for students. But one thing’s for sure: Brody’s revolutionary vision ensures the program’s lasting impact on future generations of musicians.
Photo courtesy Stacy Nick/KUNC