A qualitative study exploring the benefits of playing the Harmonica with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease has recently been published by Dr Adam Lewis, Lecturer in Physiotherapy at Brunel University, London. 

This exciting and unique research study was carried out throughout the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021, using Chris Startup’s online Harmonica group to recruit the sample of participants and all sessions were delivered via Zoom. 

The results were very encouraging with participants stating that, despite playing the harmonica with COPD being hard at first, they were able to gradually adapt and key in to their breathing. As the breathing became easier, they were able to focus on the songs and escape their respiratory condition while they were playing. Participants also noted a marked improvement in their ability to clear their airways. Additionally, they valued the social aspect of the group, as it allowed them to stay connected with others in some of the most challenging times of the Covid pandemic; many added that the group became a central activity in their weekly lives. 

 (Lewis et al., 2021)

Further studies are required to investigate the benefits of playing the harmonica with COPD and Chris is very excited to continue to work alongside Brunel University’s Adam Lewis and Joy Conway and to participate in this ground-breaking research. 

You can view the paper for full details by following the link below:

Chronic Respiratory Disease : Sage Journal

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/14799731221083315

Reference:

 Lewis, A., Conway, J., Middleton, J., Startup, C. and Wyatt, J., 2021. Playing the Harmonica with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. A qualitative study.