[Perform-Talk] Pain related to reading Braille Music at the aPiano

[Yoo Jin Noh]

Hello Elizabeth. 
Since I am a classical pianist, Here are ccouple tips I found helpful.  
#1 Better to put the hard copy of Braille score on your lap than a music stand on the piano. I found it quite cumbersome to move my hand back and forth. If possible, try to use hard copy, instead of Braille display. Reading one line at a time is very much time consuming. If you can read Braille with both hands, you can certainly take advantage of learning two lines at a time. 
#2 Try to stretch your arm and shoulder before and after practice sessions. Regular stretching has tremendously helped me to relax my muscles. Circling and shaking your arms certainly work too. Since I suffered from frozen shoulder in the past, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of stretching and exercises. 
Hope you enjoy every minute of your practicing. 

All the best, 
Yoojin 



> On Apr 6, 2025, at 1:21 PM, Elizabeth Sprecher via Perform-Talk <perform-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> 
> Hi all,
> 
> I'm asking about this particularly for pianists who have had a lot of
> experience reading braille music.
> I'm curious what solutions you might have for some finger fatigue for
> reading the music and switching back to the piano. I've found a solution
> that helps a little, having a music stand closer to my hight, so I'm not
> reaching up all the time. also, how can I relax my arms in the process. I
> also have small hands.
> If you're not a pianist, please don't respond to this. I really need ideas
> from pianists.
> Are there things I can be aware of physically so I don't end up injuring
> myself in some other way in addition to playing hard repertoire? also I'm
> noticing shifts in how uncomfortable my shoulders are.
> I don't have anyone to help with recordings and they sometimes relieve
> fatigue in my arms and shoulders.
> Has anyone thought of this with some strategies?
> 
> Thanks Much,
> Elizabeth
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