Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Preventive Advice Supported by an App on the Health of Student Musicians: a Randomized Controlled Study

Launched by ANNE-VIOLETTE BRUYNEEL · Jun 13, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This study is looking at whether using a special smartphone or tablet app can help student musicians stay healthier and feel better while managing the demands of their music practice. Many student musicians experience pain and high stress related to playing their instruments or singing, but there aren’t many health resources made just for them. This app offers helpful information about health, tools to check in on how they’re feeling, advice on healthy habits, and fun interactive games—all designed to support their busy schedules and unique challenges like travel and practice time.

The study is open to adult students (over 18) who are currently enrolled at the Geneva University of Music in either Bachelor’s or Master’s programs focused on musical performance, whether instrumental or vocal. To take part, students must be physically able to play or sing and be able to keep up with their classes as usual. Participants will use the app to receive personalized health advice and support aimed at preventing pain and reducing stress linked to their musical activities. This trial hasn’t started recruiting yet, but it hopes to provide student musicians with new ways to protect their health while pursuing their passion.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age: Over 18 years old
• • Enrollment at the Geneva University of Music (HEM) as a Bachelor (1st, 2nd, or 3rd year) or Master (1st or 2nd year) student.
• • Primary discipline: Must be in musical performance (instrumental or vocal).
• • Physical ability to play an instrument or sing (no physical disabilities that prevent participation in musical practice).
• • Must be able to follow academic activities as planned.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Unable to play their instrument or participate in singing.
• • Underwent surgery in the past 12 months that affects their ability to practice music (e.g., musculoskeletal surgeries).
• • Suffering from pain or medical conditions that are not related to musical practice (e.g., non-musical injuries or pathologies).
• • Unable to follow the planned academic schedule (e.g., missing classes or major academic constraints that would prevent full participation in the study).