The Musician’s Essential Exercises
View PostEP. 60: Injury Avoidance from a New Music Perspective with Danielle Kuntz
Injury Avoidance from a New Music Perspective with Danielle Kuntz
EPISODE 59
Injury Avoidance from a New Music Perspective with Danielle Kuntz
(42:37)I've found that composers who understand an instrument's capabilities are far less likely to write something that will cause repetitive strain or injury! - Danielle
"Toolbox Sessions" Virtual Conference - To connect composers and orchestrators with experienced performers and collaborators to delve into effective writing for their respective instruments and voices.
Date: May 19-21, 2022
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Youtube
**********
Do you ever wish composers know the struggles we experienced while playing their pieces?
You know there are just some of those musical pieces that take a toll on your body? We love them but as in the case of our latest podcast guest, harpist Danielle Kuntz, the piece by Prokofiev she referenced just automatically is understood that you will develop tendonitis by the end of playing it.
Isn't it insane? Don't you wish composers knew how to better write for your instrument?
That's why she created THE TOOLBOX SESSIONS ( And if you hurry you can still register HERE ). It is a 3-day virtual summit designed to give you the tools you need to write for instruments & voices! From May 19-21, you'll get to join 12+ presentations on writing for specific instruments/voices (oboe, voice, harp, percussion, & more), taught by performer-educators who are passionate about collaborating with composers and arrangers. To have a $10 discount type the code TUNEDANDSTRONG22 on registration.
Follow Tuned and Toned Performance!
EP. 59: Changing the Narrative: Working Through Injury, Anxiety, and Shifting Career Paths
Changing the Narrative: Working Through Injury, Anxiety, and Shifting Career Paths
EPISODE 58
Changing the Narrative: Working Through Injury, Anxiety, and Shifting Career Paths
(01:08:02)A lot of musicians feel constant pressure to always be practicing. When the COVID-19 pandemic first hit and we all suddenly had a lot of free time on our hands, many musicians continued pushing full speed ahead in preparation for virtual competitions, and some of it was because we didn't know what else to do, and sitting with our emotions can often feel uncomfortable or even unsafe at times.
"When I was first experiencing my injury, there were no resources available to me. The majority of my recovery process has been a series of finding out what worked for me and what didn't, and I found the best results when I combined my work with somatic education professionals with the strength training and exercise routines I was doing with my physical therapist - Francesca"
If you're experiencing feelings of overwhelm, or feeling like you aren't able to stay on top of everything in recovery for your injury and in maintaining other responsibilities, the most important thing is to know that you're not alone. Consistency and celebrating 'small wins' is the goal, and knowing that the path will not always be linear. Find your support system and rely on them when things become difficult, and know that you are always making progress.
Social Media Accounts:
Facebook
Instagram
Websites:
- www.playingwithoutpain.com
- www.francescaleoflute.com
- MTNA Conference Registration
- Monthly Worry Group Meetings Page
**********
Do you ever wish composers know the struggles we experienced while playing their pieces?
You know there are just some of those musical pieces that take a toll on your body? We love them but as in the case of our latest podcast guest, harpist Danielle Kuntz, the piece by Prokofiev she referenced just automatically is understood that you will develop tendonitis by the end of playing it.
Isn't it insane? Don't you wish composers knew how to better write for your instrument?
That's why she created THE TOOLBOX SESSIONS ( And if you hurry you can still register HERE ). It is a 3-day virtual summit designed to give you the tools you need to write for instruments & voices! From May 19-21, you'll get to join 12+ presentations on writing for specific instruments/voices (oboe, voice, harp, percussion, & more), taught by performer-educators who are passionate about collaborating with composers and arrangers. To have a $10 discount type the code TUNEDANDSTRONG22 on registration.
Follow Tuned and Toned Performance!
EP. 58: Taking Responsibility for Your Own Choices – Musical and Self-Care
“Taking Responsibility for Your Own Choices - Musical and Self-Care"
EPISODE 58
“Taking Responsibility for Your Own Choices - Musical and Self-Care"
(50:04)Many musicians are injured and many are playing in pain. In 2012, Dr. Bronwen Ackerman, Professor of Biomedical Science at the University of Sydney, surveyed members of the eight professional full time orchestras in Sydney. 84% of the musicians had experienced pain that had interfered either with playing their instrument or participating in orchestral rehearsals and performances. 50% had pain at time of the survey. Another study, done in 2008 by the American Association of Physician Assistants, found that there was a 50-76% of musicians reported musculoskeletal injuries. In comparison, a 2009 study found that the injury rate for Cirque du Soleil artists was 9.7% compared to a 15.2% injury rate for NCAA collegiate women’s gymnasts.
Ackermann, B., Driscoll, T., & Kenny, D.T. (2012). Musculoskeletal pain and injury in professional orchestral musicians in Australia. Medical Problems of Performing Artists, 27(4), 181-7.
Heinan. M. (2008). A review of the unique injuries sustained by musicians. Journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants. 21(4), 45-6, 48, 50.
Shrier, I., Meeuwisse, W.H., Matheson, G.O., Wingfield, K., Steele, R.J., Prince, F., Hanley, J., & Montanaro, M. (2009). Injury patterns and injury rates in the circus arts: an analysis of 5 years of data from Cirque du Soleil. American Journal of Sports Medicine. 37(6), 1143-9.
Kelly's Website
Instagram
Facebook
Kelly's Articles:
- The Flute Examiner
- Stuff From Other Places Part 1
- Stuff From Other Places Part 2
- Healing My Clipped Wing
Kelly Mollnow-Wilson teaches is a licensed massage therapist and Neurokinetic Therapist Level 3 as well as being a certified Body Mapper. She teaches at Oberlin Conservatory. Her "frankenflute" was altered by Alexa Still and the footjoint was modified by John Lunn.
**********
Do you ever wish composers know the struggles we experienced while playing their pieces?
You know there are just some of those musical pieces that take a toll on your body? We love them but as in the case of our latest podcast guest, harpist Danielle Kuntz, the piece by Prokofiev she referenced just automatically is understood that you will develop tendonitis by the end of playing it.
Isn't it insane? Don't you wish composers knew how to better write for your instrument?
That's why she created THE TOOLBOX SESSIONS ( And if you hurry you can still register HERE ). It is a 3-day virtual summit designed to give you the tools you need to write for instruments & voices! From May 19-21, you'll get to join 12+ presentations on writing for specific instruments/voices (oboe, voice, harp, percussion, & more), taught by performer-educators who are passionate about collaborating with composers and arrangers. To have a $10 discount type the code TUNEDANDSTRONG22 on registration.
Follow Tuned and Toned Performance!
EP. 57: Toxic Teachers
Toxic Teachers
EPISODE 57
Toxic Teachers
(1:13:45)Have you ever had a lesson and thought about your teacher, “Wow, what is wrong with that person?” Or worse yet, thought “What is wrong with me?” only to realize in hindsight that you were not the one at fault?
In this episode, Angela and Jen discuss the concept of Toxic Teachers: instructors at various levels within the music industry with horrible habits and/or approaches that leave long-lasting negative effects on their students. Join us as we unpack what these habits can look like, how they can be twisted to gaslight the student, and how to avoid the impact of these negative effects!
As always, please share with a friend and if you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a good review so you can help us get in front of more musicians!
Follow Tuned and Toned Performance!
EP. 56: Breaking Tradition: A Hidden Music Industry
Breaking Tradition: A Hidden Music Industry
EPISODE 56
Breaking Tradition: A Hidden Music Industry
(1:18:22)“I’m just a musician, no one is going to pay THAT much!!”
We’ve talked about “lack mindset” before when it comes to music and business, and many professionals are now working to change music culture to eliminate it as a factor. But even so, it can be difficult for many of us to charge “living wage” rates as self-employed musicians! And it is scary when we find ourselves comparing our desired rates to things like colleagues’ rates, mentors’ rates, or worrying about losing current students or clients.
How can you combat these fears and charge what you need to survive? Join us for our chat with “The Lucrative Artist,” Dr. Brian Witkowski, as he discusses how to combat these common issues and reach your full professional potential!
Follow Tuned and Toned Performance!
EP. 55: Holistic Perspective to Injury Prevention with Lea Pearson Part -2
Holistic Perspective to Injury Prevention with Lea Pearson Part -2
EPISODE 55
Holistic Perspective to Injury Prevention with Lea Pearson Part -2
(37:00)

What do you REALLY know about your body??
In this 2-part conversation, we chat with Dr. Lea Pearson: flutist, body mapper, author of "What Every Flute Teacher Needs to Know About the Body," and owner of Music Minus Pain.
Join us as we discuss anatomy and body mechanics as topics in music instruction, the history of the work within the educational system, and training TEACHERS to have a better understanding for their students!!
Master Teacher Dr. Lea Pearson has been training students, performers, and teachers in innovative techniques for over 30 years. Dr. Pearson holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in flute performance, a Master’s Degree in performance practice from Stanford University, and was a Fulbright Scholar at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
One of the first Licensed Body Mapping Educators in the world, Dr. Pearson authored the acclaimed book “Body Mapping for Flutists: What Every Flute Teacher Needs to Know About the Body.” She has helped thousands of musicians recover their ability to play with joy and ease with her sold-out workshops and master classes.
Her influence among flute teachers is legendary. Guiding international performers from Brazil to China, Dr. Pearson has taught at London's Guildhall School of Music and Drama, The US Air Force Band, and over than 100 colleges, conservatories, military bases, conferences, camps, and festivals around the globe. Her work as a Fulbright Scholar prepared her to teach musicians the missing piece - exactly how to play freely and efficiently to create the artistry they desire.
With a career as an active performer, college teacher, and a Kennedy Center Teaching Artist, Dr. Pearson applies her vast expertise to solving the music industry’s hidden secret: the pain and anxiety caused by traditional methods of instruction. Her chosen legacy is to transform the system of music education so all musicians can fully and freely express their artistic voice.
Find more about Lea here:
Website
Take a QUIZ to find out your strengths and challenges in teaching!
Facebook
Books:
Body Mapping for Flutists: What Every Flute Teacher Needs to Know About the Body.
Available at Flutistry, Flute World, Flute Specialists, GIA Music, & Carolyn Nussbaum.
Follow Tuned and Toned Performance!
EP. 54: Holistic Perspective to Injury Prevention with Lea Pearson Part -1
Holistic Perspective to Injury Prevention with Lea Pearson Part -1
EPISODE 54
Holistic Perspective to Injury Prevention with Lea Pearson Part -1
(52:27)

What do you REALLY know about your body??
In this 2-part conversation, we chat with Dr. Lea Pearson: flutist, body mapper, author of "What Every Flute Teacher Needs to Know About the Body," and owner of Music Minus Pain.
Join us as we discuss anatomy and body mechanics as topics in music instruction, the history of the work within the educational system, and training TEACHERS to have a better understanding for their students!!
Master Teacher Dr. Lea Pearson has been training students, performers, and teachers in innovative techniques for over 30 years. Dr. Pearson holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in flute performance, a Master’s Degree in performance practice from Stanford University, and was a Fulbright Scholar at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
One of the first Licensed Body Mapping Educators in the world, Dr. Pearson authored the acclaimed book “Body Mapping for Flutists: What Every Flute Teacher Needs to Know About the Body.” She has helped thousands of musicians recover their ability to play with joy and ease with her sold-out workshops and master classes.
Her influence among flute teachers is legendary. Guiding international performers from Brazil to China, Dr. Pearson has taught at London's Guildhall School of Music and Drama, The US Air Force Band, and over than 100 colleges, conservatories, military bases, conferences, camps, and festivals around the globe. Her work as a Fulbright Scholar prepared her to teach musicians the missing piece - exactly how to play freely and efficiently to create the artistry they desire.
With a career as an active performer, college teacher, and a Kennedy Center Teaching Artist, Dr. Pearson applies her vast expertise to solving the music industry’s hidden secret: the pain and anxiety caused by traditional methods of instruction. Her chosen legacy is to transform the system of music education so all musicians can fully and freely express their artistic voice.
Find more about Lea here:
Website
Take a QUIZ to find out your strengths and challenges in teaching!
Facebook
Books:
Body Mapping for Flutists: What Every Flute Teacher Needs to Know About the Body.
Available at Flutistry, Flute World, Flute Specialists, GIA Music, & Carolyn Nussbaum.
Follow Tuned and Toned Performance!
EP. 53: Strength is a Scary Word
Strength is a Scary Word
EPISODE 54
Strength is a Scary Word
(45:46)Strength ≠ bodybuilding.
The two Things are not mutually exclusive. In this episode of the tuned and strong podcast Angela and Jen discuss how strength is not a dirty word, it's not a scary word and it probably means something sometimes other than what you think it does.
Follow Tuned and Toned Performance!
EP. 37: Rest is Not Rehab with Allyson Royal
"Rest is Not Rehab" with Allyson Royal
EPISODE 37
"Rest is Not Rehab" with Allyson Royal
(57:38)Dr. Allyson Royal is a violist and educator active in the Tallahassee and surrounding areas. In her past life as an athlete chasing down the title of "Superwoman," she faced a massive injury in the form of multiple herniated discs, pinched nerves, and degenerative disc disease. After years of being told to "stop moving," Allyson is back to working with her body again and finding new ways in which it is, in fact, capable! Join us as we discuss her process of growing from athlete to resting, and once again back to aspiring mover!
Find Allyson online!
Allyson's Facebook Page
Allyson's Instagram Account
************************************************************************
Dr. Heidi Kay Begay is a self-employed flutist, educator, podcaster, and non-profit organizer. Heidi is the creator and host of the Flute 360 podcast, which delivers educational content (to the modern-day flutist) through various platforms. Since 2018, the podcast has produced over 170 episodes, received over 56,000 downloads from 70 countries, and has obtained numerous corporate sponsorships. Heidi’s mission is to help musicians reach new heights so they can feel empowered, confident, and have a life they love on and off the stage! Please visit https://heidikaybegay.com for more information!
************************************************************************
Arthur Breur (he/him) composes personalized, melodic music for live performance, for everything from solo instrument or voice, to full orchestra, concert band, and other large ensembles.
His compositional style was shaped by three primary influences growing up: a strong church choir program, the great classic film scores of the 1970s, and children’s television programs like Sesame Street and The Muppets.
Arthur is the Composer in Residence for the Tualatin Valley Symphony and the Tualatin Valley Community Band, and uses his role not just for his own music, but to promote the creation and performance of new music by other composers.
Over the more than 35 years he has been composing, he has written more than 150 individual pieces, including works for five weddings, two musicals, bar and bat mitzvahs, and numerous video and film productions.
In addition to composing, he owns and runs a web development company that he founded in 2001 and has published the novels of three authors.
Arthur Breur currently lives in Portland, Oregon with his husband, Brian.
************************************************************************
Dr. Garrett Hope’s purpose is to use his God-given creativity and communication skills to entertain and enlighten, draw people together for a common cause, and to coach others to see new opportunities.
An award-winning composer of film and concert music, Garrett engages with performers and audiences to tell stories and create life-changing experiences. He loves working with educational ensembles, and especially values his work with students.
As a coach and public speaker, Garrett empowers people to see new opportunities and take courageous action. He does this by helping them identify and break through the beliefs that they hold about themselves that are preventing them from achieving their potential. He helps creatives build networks and make strategic business decisions so they can make a living doing what they love.
Garrett holds degrees from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, the University of Northern Colorado, and Colorado Christian University. He is a native of Colorado, but currently lives in Nebraska with his wife and daughter.
For more information visit www.garretthope.com.