South African classical pianists’ lived experiences of preventing and recovering from playing- and performance-related injuries

Abstract

This research aimed to explore the lived experiences of South African classical pianists who have suffered from a playing- and performance-related injury, and how they have navigated this challenge. I facilitated an in-depth exploration of six adult South African classical pianists, each diagnosed with a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD), through semi-structured online interviews to access their individual lived experiences. I implemented a qualitative interpretivist paradigm, analysing the data using an interpretative phenomenological (IPA) approach and identifying four main themes. These themes are firstly, pianists’ playing-related musculoskeletal injuries; secondly, the influence of musculoskeletal injuries on pianists; thirdly, how the pianists recovered from a musculoskeletal injury; and fourthly, how pianists can prevent a musculoskeletal injury. Although the visual symptoms of an underlying MSD were minimal, the pianists experienced their musculoskeletal injuries with pronounced physical symptoms while playing and practising the piano. The injuries that the pianists suffered from influenced them in profound ways, including their daily lives, mental and emotional well-being, and piano careers. Although the participants were satisfied with the medical care they received, it became evident that body awareness, relaxation techniques, and alternative practising methods were key aspects to assist in the recovery process. They also suggested that these strategies may prevent further injuries and should form part of the daily practising regimes of a pianist. Overall, the pianists did not experience the recovery and prevention process as a singular event, but rather a combination of a range of somatic lifestyle practices and piano practising methods that promote a healthy and sustainable career as professional pianist. With this study, I drew on the participants’ experiences to increase awareness and extend knowledge of performance-related MSDs affecting pianists in a South African context. The study concludes that, for professional pianists to prevent MSDs from occurring, music pedagogies in South Africa need to promote awareness with regards to healthy piano technique, and provide knowledge about prevention and recovery strategies during piano training from an early age. This study contributes to extending knowledge and education about playing-related MSDs that may potentially lead to pianists experiencing long-term problem-free playing for continuous artistic development.