Health and Safety for Student Musicians
Musician health and safety is an increasingly important issue. The Department of Music at the University of New Orleans, as required by the National Association of Schools of Music, must inform students and faculty of health and safety issues, hazards, and procedures inherent in practice, performance, teaching and listening both in general and as applicable to their specific specializations. This includes but is not limited to information regarding hearing, vocal and musculoskeletal health, injury prevention, and the use, proper handling and operation of potentially dangerous materials, equipment and technology.
The UNO Department of Music takes this charge very seriously. Proper health practices now may prevent performance injuries in the future, and will help you be your most productive as a musician and as a person. We encourage all students to familiarize themselves with the information presented here and take advantage of the resources and services available.
The Department of Music has developed policies, protocols, and operational procedures to guard against injury and illness in the study and practice of music, as well as to raise the awareness among our students and faculty of the connections between musicians' health, the suitability and safety of equipment and technology, and the acoustic and other health-related conditions in the University's practice, rehearsal, and performance facilities. Individuals are personally responsible for avoiding risk and preventing injuries to themselves before, during, and after study or employment in the UNO Department of Music. The policies, protocols, and operational procedures developed by the department do not alter or cancel any individual’s personal responsibility to make responsible personal decisions. They serve only to better educate and inform the students and faculty of the Department of Music.
The information provided here is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment by a licensed professional, nor is it a substitute for each individual’s responsibility to cultivate his or her own healthy habits on a daily basis.