Music Educators Report on Health Issues

In January 2008, MENC’s online Question of the Month asked members about health issues for music educators and music students. 374 members responded to this voluntary survey.

One question from the survey asked teachers about student health as it relates to music class:

Do you currently see, or have you seen, any of these injuries or issues with your students?

75%: yes
21%: no

If so, which? Please indicate all that apply:

46%: vocal health for singers (improper/overuse of voice)
20%: musculoskeletal health for instrumentalists (injuries, strains, etc.)
16%: music-induced hearing loss
43%: stress in the lives of music students affecting their musicianship
66%: performance anxiety
19%: musculoskeletal health for singers (alignment, posture, relaxation, etc.)

For more information on the survey, contact Info@menc.org. You can also read MENC’s position statement on Health in Music Education.