Retraining process for musicians diagnosed with Musician's Dystonia (MD)

 Below is a basic outline of what has been the average experience of our clients. However, this will vary due to the wide range of the severity of symptoms.

MWNA orientation with Jan (via "Zoom"): ( 2-3 hrs.) T= US$300

This orientation serves to explain the causes of Musician's Dystonia and to reorient the individual towards healthy performance practices. This session will usually be held in an online group format with the option to remain anonymous.

Personal Initial Consultation (via "Skype"): (1hr) US$250/hr

This individual consultation serves to address the client's specific issues and to share solutions to these issues in the form of targeted exercises.

Follow-up Sessions with Jan (approximately 20 individual one-hour sessions, via “Skype”): US$170/hr with prescription, US$150/hr. without prescription (later sessions) T = $3000-$3400

For the most successful experience, excellent internet service and headphones will be beneficial.

All clients will meet with a team of two or more clinicians during the course of their retraining.

Follow-up Sessions with Devin Bennett (approximately 40 individual one-hour sessions, via "Skype"): US$100/hr with prescription, US$80/hr without prescription T = $3200

Follow-up Sessions with Alessio Savio/Bobby Fisco/Byron Yount/Landon Gray (approximately 40 individual one-hour sessions, via "Skype"): US$80/hr with prescription, US$60/hr without prescription T = 2400

The total cost for retraining sessions is approximately $5800-$6600. Payment is due within 24 hours of each session.

Again, this is an approximate outline of successful retraining.  MOST clients have spent LESS time with us. We consider a player successfully retrained when they are able to perform without ANY dystonic symptoms and with more efficiency than prior to the onset of MD. Most clients can expect an overarching continual improvement while still experiencing a “two steps forward, one step back” phenomenon, especially in the early stages of retraining. These ups and downs diminish as the player gains more experience with efficiency. It is extremely rare that a player makes no progress or has relapses. We have assisted more than 1000 players and this experience has streamlined the recover process for our clients.

The musician most likely to fully retrain:

  • Believes retraining is possible and has a positive attitude.
  • Reads suggested research articles.
  • Has an understanding of the cause and remedy of their Musician's Dystonia.
  • Has an understanding of their retraining process.
  • Is not currently in another retraining program.
  • Is not trying to combine various methodologies.
  • Is able to question all “methodology” including that of MWNA.
  • Takes personal responsibility for their retraining.
  • Takes personal responsibility for their general wellness (physical, mental and intellectual).
  • Has the time, energy and patience to retrain (@ 2 hours per day)
  • Does not have stressful performance obligations.
  • Is able to consistently sustain their focus of attention on the solution.
  • Applies the principles to other disciplines and activities.
  • Has family’s, friends’, and teacher’s support and understanding.
  • Works with an Alexander Technique Teacher (I will request that you do this).
  • Did not utilize specific practice regimen such as Breathing Gym, Caruso, Stamp etc.… These “systems” make retraining more difficult.