Document Type

Other

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

Clara Schumann, renowned composer and pianist, writes to Johannes Brahms while on her annual English tour: “I have good news for you in that I am being afforded an enthusiastic reception, people say I have never played so well, etc.; but I am suffering terribly with rheumatism in my arm and finger muscles…I am absolutely exhausted” (Altenmüller & Kopiez 110). Clara had been enduring concert after concert to financially support her family, and though she received high praise for performances, her health was deteriorating because of it. Many musicians like Clara train rigorously, dedicating thousands of hours to master their instrument, but during the process, they develop a playing injury that prevents them from playing. According to Wilke et al., instrumentalists are twice as likely than the general population to be affected by some form of musculoskeletal disorder (Wilke et al. 24). Statistics regarding rehabilitation are just as bleak, as many musicians struggle to find effective treatments. Countless musicians have been impacted by playing injuries, and despite advances in medical science, playing injuries are still a significant problem for musicians today, one that needs to be addressed at the national level.

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

Copyright © 2026 Emily Hofer

Download

Share

COinS