Publication Date

2017-05-03

Availability

Open access

Embargo Period

2017-05-03

Degree Type

Doctoral Essay

Degree Name

Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)

Department

Keyboard Performance (Music)

Date of Defense

2017-04-07

First Committee Member

Naoko Takao

Second Committee Member

Santiago Rodriguez

Third Committee Member

Tian Ying

Fourth Committee Member

Karen Kennedy

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to offer a conceptual basis and physical actions to retrain specific physiological settings, which are: 1) excessive and/or permanent stress of fingers at the flexor/extensor muscles, and 2) under development and thumb’s functionality and coordination, both common causes of rigidity and stagnation of fingers while playing the piano. Exercises and actions selected to fulfill this purpose belong to several authors that have designed gymnastic exercises and routines for hand and fingers, as well as those created by myself and this research’s advisor Dr. Naoko Takao. The exercises are sequenced following specific targeted outcomes, complemented with additional clarification of the purpose, goals, and proper usage, within the specific application parameters of this study.

Keywords

finger gymnastics; retraining psychomotor habits; hand muscular coordination; refining acquired skills

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