Course content.
This minor focuses on the physiological aspects of music-making. Students acquire skills and knowledge in topics such as prevention and health promotion in dealing with the instrument / with the voice as well as physiologically based practising. 
The minor is offered by the Continuing Education Music and can be completed in German and/or English. It is aimed at Bachelor’s and Master’s students.

Skills acquired in the course.
Graduates have a sound knowledge of the health risks specific to their profession. Basic knowledge of the functional anatomy enables them to follow the requirements of their main instrument or voice. They are capable of putting their own prevention concept into practice sensibly with practical exercises in muscle tone regulation, movement, breathing and posture.

Admissions requirements.
You are enrolled in a degree programme of the Department of Music, have broad musical skills and an interest in self-reflection. Further requirements will be assessed in the course of a competency assessment.

Language skills required.
You need the following languages to take this minor:
–  German: to be able to follow a discussion
–  German or English: to actively participate in a verbal exchange
–  German: to understand a text
–  German or English: to write a text

Benefits of studying at ZHdK.
Music physiology plays a key role in the self-confidence and performance level of musicians and music teachers in a challenging professional environment. ZHdK offers students one of the world’s largest music physiology teaching, advisory and research programmes. The Zurich Centre for Musicians’ Hands (ZZM), the Hand Lab of ZHdK, is part of it. This expertise flows into the “Music Physiology – basic” minor and the more in-depth “Music Physiology – intermediate” minor. 

Time structure.
This minor is scheduled for every Friday during the semester from 9.30 am to 5.00 pm.

→ Semester dates ZHdK
→ More information about this minor (PDF download)

At ZHdK, students choose a Major. In addition to this core subject, they can choose one or two Minors to deepen or expand their major skills and knowledge across various disciplines. This wide choice of courses is unique in Europe and enables students to develop and sharpen their individual profile.