The course will be divided into two sections:

1.    Integral systems of the human body:
Students will be introduced to the following body systems: nervous, endocrine, muscular- skeletal, digestive, immune, cardiovascular, integumentary, urinary, reproductive, special senses (includes vision and hearing). 

2.    Discussion of issues relevant to performance health:
Students will study wellness issues related to various body systems and the management of common musicians' problems including mind-body relationships, management of performance anxiety, energy boosters, exercising for better health, nutrition for musicians, prevention and management of injuries, vocal health, alcohol and substance abuse, self identity and value, audiological health, managing the emotions, workstyle changes, fine tuning a performance and the healing powers of music.

Wellness issues studied may change according to students' needs.  Some relevant healing modalities will be critically examined.  From time to time guest specialists in the health sciences may be invited to contribute to lectures and tutorials.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the historical background of performing arts medicine;
2. explain the term "athletic musician" and why musicians need to focus on wellness;
3. demonstrate a basic understanding of the body systems;
4. demonstrate knowledge of at least two common injuries and/ or disorders relevant to the student's performance through approved research;
5. demonstrate an understanding of the mechanisms of performance anxiety and strategies for their management;
6. explain the value of exercise to performers and demonstrate at least two exercises that might assist the prevention of hand, wrist, lower arm, upper arm, neck, upper and lower back injuries;
7. explain the importance of posture and the principle of compensation;
8. identify common nutrients beneficial to performance;
9. recognize and manage difficulties that impact on a performer's well being and identify sources of help within the university and in the wider community;
10. explain the primary occupational hazards to hearing and vision, give reasons why, and suggest protective practices;
11. explain how a musician might prepare for an special audition or public performance

Written research paper 1500-2000 words(50%) and tutorial presentation (50%).

One one-hour lecture and one one-hour tutorial each week.

Marieb, E. 2006.  Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology.  8th edition. San Francisco: Benjamin Cummings. Available at the University Bookshop.  An extra copy is on reserve in the Music Library.

i Llobet, Jaume Rosset and Odam, George Ruth.  2007.  The Musician's Body: A Maintenance Manual for Peak Performance.  London, The Guildhall School of Music and Drama and Aldershot, Ashgate Publishing Ltd. 

Marieb, E. 2006.  Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology.  8th edition. San Francisco: Benjamin Cummings. Available at the University Bookshop.  An extra copy is on reserve in the Music Library.