Improvisational Therapy Methods May Help Alleviate Music Performance Anxiety Symptoms in College Musicians

Authors

Shaina Rush

Faculty Sponsor

Mark Montemayor

Abstract

Musical performance anxiety (MPA) is a prominent disorder among musicians (Kirchner, 2004/2005). Music therapy is one of the most effective forms of therapy for anxiety in non-musicians; however, it has been overlooked as a coping method for anxious musicians (Martinez, 2009). This study included five sessions of improvisational exercises with college wind musicians. As a result, MPA symptoms subsided, and self-awareness of the body was improved during performances. Anxiety levels were measured via self-reported surveys and personal journals of progress from participants. Research in improvisational practice techniques provided performing artist with a form of self-therapy that may lead to more successful performances and careers.

Recommended Citation

Rush, Shaina (2013) "Improvisational Therapy Methods May Help Alleviate Music Performance Anxiety Symptoms in College Musicians," Ursidae: The Undergraduate Research Journal at the University of Northern Colorado: Vol. 3: No. 2, Article 6.
Available at: https://digscholarship.unco.edu/urj/vol3/iss2/6