Army of Harmony: A Different Type of Music Therapy
I ran into Mike Schwartz–or, more correctly, he ran into me–at Canadian Music Week. A drummer at heart, his aim is to become a physical therapist for musicians.
Here’s how he describes his mission, which he calls Army of Harmony: “I know what it’s like to have carpal tunnel, a bad back and other issues because of incorrect playing styles. My job is to help with body mechanics–corrective measures with how they use their bodies–to help them overcome or even avoid issues of strain and pain.”
Here’s an example of what he has posted on his YouTube channel:
Then here’s Mike’s blog. Check out some of these topics:
- Why Musicians Need to Listen to Billy Talent’s Aaron Solowoniuk
- What’s the Best Way to Sleep While on Tour?
- A Musician’s Guide to High Performance
- How Much Does Personal Training Really Cost?
- Share the Pain: Load Sharing vs. Isolation Theory
- Maybe Rethink That Drink
- How Music Has Kept Me Alive
- Never Underestimate the Power of Focus
Listen, if you’re a promoter of a festival and want to offer a special backstage service–or a road manager with a van full of musicians hellbent on crippling themselves–think about dropping Mike a line at [email protected]
Mike Schwartz
Army of Harmony
Ba. P.Sci & MGSO University of Calgary
CHEK HLC | CFP-PTS | Keiser Spin | PN
Mike Schwartz is a CHEK Certified Holistic Lifestyle Coach and Certified Personal Trainer based out of Calgary, Alberta. Known as the Canadian Music Industry Health & Performance Specialist, Schwartz blends over 15 years of combined experience as a professional drummer with expertise in coaching corrective exercise, post-rehabilitation, nutrition, sport performance, weight loss and stress management. Reach out to Mike for guidance in prolonging your playing career, correcting old injuries, curbing poor lifestyle habits and maximizing your health and performance as a musician.
