Date of Award
Summer 2025
Document Type
Open Access Dissertation
Department
School of Music
First Advisor
Jennifer Parker-Harley
Abstract
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a connective tissue disorder that presents significant physical and mental challenges for musicians, particularly in instrumental performance. These challenges may include chronic pain, joint instability, fatigue, anxiety, and depression. While such symptoms are associated with EDS, they are not exclusive to it and are also common among individuals with other invisible disabilities, such as fibromyalgia, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), celiac disease, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). This study explores the experiences of flutists with EDS and other invisible disabilities, focusing on the coping strategies and adaptations they use in their practice routines. A qualitative methodology, including semi-structured interviews and autoethnography, is used to capture individual experiences and reflect on the author’s personal journey as a flutist with EDS. The research aims to develop adaptive practices to support musicians with disabilities, inform music educators, and promote inclusivity in music education and performance. The findings will be analyzed thematically to identify key strategies and insights, contributing to a more supportive environment for musicians with invisible disabilities.
Rights
© 2025, Jessica Pelltier
Recommended Citation
Pelltier, J.(2025). Awareness and Practice Methods for Musicians with Invisible Disabilities: Insights Gained from Playing the Flute with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/etd/8542