An Investigation of the Music Education Reform on Muscular Disease Prevention and Treatment: Case on Piano Teaching Method at Juilliard Music School

Abstract

The occurrence rate of neuromusculoskeletal diseases related to keyboard instrument performance has remained high among instrumentalists, often limiting or terminating their learning and performing careers. Injured pianists have been eager to find solutions, seeking so-called scientific methods to develop injury-preventing techniques, yet these methods have lacked rigorous research. This study investigates an interdisciplinary and non-traditional piano teaching method - the Juilliard School’s Piano Teaching Method - to determine its effectiveness in recovery and prevention of neuromusculoskeletal diseases and relapses. It also examines its influence on technique, musicality, and muscular factors. Participants include undergraduate and graduate students, amateur pianists, and enthusiasts who studied this method for at least two semesters between 2020 and 2022. The sample comprises 103 learners aged 22 to 72, with 74 respondents (N=74) participating (71.8%), and 26 of them underwent in-depth interviews. Survey and interview results indicate that participants find this method significantly beneficial for facilitating recovery from neuromusculoskeletal diseases. Moreover, survey and interview participants report improvements in technique and musicality. This study concludes that the Juilliard School’s piano teaching method can serve as a useful model for piano technique instruction aimed at injury prevention within the piano profession, with potential for broader adoption nationwide.