Violinist Laura Frautschi Advocates Athletic Approach to Musician Health
Violinist Laura Frautschi, a soloist and chamber musician performing across the US and Asia, draws parallels between the physical demands on musicians and elite athletes. She discussed her approach during a panel titled "Inside the Orchestra: Artists As Athletes" at Lincoln Center, moderated by Erin Lunsford Norton. Frautschi, who studied at Harvard College and Juilliard, experienced early-career injury from repetitive strain, leading her to adopt stretching routines, timed practice sessions, and cross-training like yoga and weightlifting. She emphasizes preparing for performances by simulating nervous conditions to build confidence. Frautschi serves as principal second violin of the Festival Orchestra of Lincoln Center since 2010 and tours with piano trio Intersection.
Key facts
- Laura Frautschi is a violinist with a busy performance and recording career.
- She performs as soloist and chamber musician throughout the US and Asia.
- She has given world premieres of violin concertos by Lee Hyla and Augusta Read Thomas.
- Frautschi studied applied mathematics at Harvard College and violin at Juilliard with Robert Mann.
- She is a member of piano trio Intersection with Kristina Cooper and John Novacek.
- She has served as principal second violin of the Festival Orchestra of Lincoln Center since 2010.
- Frautschi appeared on a panel at Lincoln Center titled 'Inside the Orchestra: Artists As Athletes'.
- She advocates for musicians to adopt athletic routines like stretching and cross-training.
- Frautschi experienced early injury from repetitive playing and sought physical therapy.
- She uses a timer to limit practice sessions to 30 minutes to avoid stress buildup.
Entities
Artists
- Laura Frautschi
- Lee Hyla
- Augusta Read Thomas
- Robert Mann
- Kristina Cooper
- John Novacek
- Erin Lunsford Norton
Institutions
- Harvard College
- The Juilliard School
- Orchestra of St. Lukes
- New York City Opera Orchestra
- Orpheus Chamber Orchestra
- Lincoln Center
- Festival Orchestra of Lincoln Center
- The Strad
Locations
- United States
- Asia
- Japan
- Lincoln Center