Exploring five professional violinists’ lived experiences of performance-related pain: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) is to explore how five professional South African violinists make sense of their lived experiences of performance-related pain. The research problem of this study is multifaceted and includes career implications for violinists who play despite experiencing pain and are afraid to speak up because of the stigma associated with being injured. There is also a lack of support of, and understanding from, fellow musicians, doctors and other specialists when faced with diagnosing injuries as well as recommending treatment options. In South Africa there is limited research on these aspects. In this IPA study the data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five professional South African violinists who had experiences with performance-related pain. In addition to the interview, the participants were also asked to provide a picture of an object that depicted how they made sense of their lived experiences. The six steps of IPA data analysis, according to Smith et al. (2009:82-107), were followed. The six subordinate themes that emerged from the data analysis were: (i) Playing through the pain; (ii) Lack of identity: Who am I if I cannot play the violin?; (iii) Depression when unable to play because of pain; (iv) Growth through faith and spirituality; (v) Support and lack of support from family, friends, management, doctors and other experts; and (vi) Lack of awareness and understanding of performance-related injuries by musicians and health care professionals. Future research on the topic should address the stigma associated with musicians’ injuries. Heightened awareness of musicians’ lived experience of performance-related pain could bring about much needed change and support advocacy for pain prevention and assistance for violinists and musicians.