Frontal lobe brain damage and the lived piano-playing experiences of an older adult

ABSTRACT This paper presents an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) of the lived piano-playing experiences of an older adult who suffered frontal lobe brain damage. Semi-structured interviews and diary reflections were used to gain insight into the intrapersonal, relational, spiritual and therapeutic experiences of the participant, Annie. Emergent themes include being ill, loss, depression and anxiety, determination, yearning, will to live and spirituality. Annie’s experiences are discussed against the background of the additional impact of a frontal lobe brain injury on cognition, memory, ability to learn a new skill and personality. Furthermore, her experiences are also discussed in the light of logotherapeutic principles. The role of music and specifically of piano playing in general wellbeing and rehabilitation after brain injury is highlighted.