What happens in musicians' brains when ensemble playing truly clicks? Neuroscience now has answers and practical tools follow. This clinic translates cutting-edge research on neural synchrony and interoception into four immediately usable mindfulness-based practices for rehearsal: collective breathing, a Musical Body Scan, inquiry-based communication, and mindful rehearsal structure. Directors leave with scripts, a 4-week plan, and a framework grounded in over two decades of empirical research.
Frank Diaz
- Biographical Information
Dr. Frank M. Diaz is professor of music education and director of the Office of Wellness and Arts Health Initiatives (OWAHI) at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. He also serves as affiliate faculty for the IU Cognitive Science Program. His teaching focuses on string pedagogy, instrumental music education, and the integration of contemplative practices in music education and performance. Diaz’s research examines intersections between mindfulness, cognitive science, and music education, with particular attention to musicians’ well-being. This work is summarized and applied in his recent book, Mindful Musicianship: Embracing Presence, Navigating Challenges, and Unleashing Creativity (GIA Publications), written for performers, conductors, and educators seeking to bring contemplative practice into their teaching and performance. His scholarship has also appeared in leading journals including the Journal of Research in Music Education, Psychology of Music, and Music Educators Journal. As founding director of OWAHI, Diaz has developed comprehensive wellness programming for students at the Jacobs School, reaching thousands of participants annually through support services, educational workshops, and community outreach. An active conductor and clinician, Diaz maintains a national presence through guest conducting engagements with honor orchestras, festival appearances, and teaching residencies, having worked with educators and performers in over 35 states.