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Help Musicians backs research into 'playing-related' injuries for musicians
By Chris Cooke | Published on Tuesday 14 May 2019
Help Musicians is supporting a new research project being led by the Liverpool Philharmonic and Liverpool John Moores University which will explore how the industry could better prevent injuries that are commonly suffered by those who play music for a living, with a focus on orchestral musicians.
The three organisations involved say that the research has been "commissioned in response to UK and international research findings which have consistently raised concerns regarding the prevalence and impact of 'playing-related' injuries for musicians".
The research will be undertaken by Céleste Rousseau as part of her PhD at the university, and the hope is that what she publishes will "inform the [classical music] sector as well as health professionals seeking to learn from and adopt any new methods specific to supporting musicians".
Announcing the project, Thelma Handy of the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra says: "As well as supporting our own musicians in the orchestra, Céleste's research will hopefully help to drive positive change across the music industry to ensure musicians are more effectively prepared and supported to meet the needs of a demanding profession throughout their training and professional careers".
Confirming its support for the initiative, Claire Gevaux at Help Musicians UK adds: "As a research focused, evidence-led charity that offers a lifetime of support when it's needed the most, we're excited to see the potential long term impact this unique study will have for all musicians in the UK and beyond. We also look forward to seeing the potential impact in the health sector including clinicians and therapists, to share knowledge and best practice across the industry to sustain careers, prevent life-changing injuries and allow musicians to get the health support they need to consistently perform at their best in a demanding profession".
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