Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 27, 2026
Investigation into Deep Breathing through Measurement of Ventilatory Parameters and Observation of Breathing Patterns
Published on: September 16, 2019
Impact of Respiratory Training on Wind Instrumentalists and Vocalists: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Pablo Ces-Lafuente1, Clara Rodríguez-Gude2, Adrián Martín-Palomo2
1Universidade de Vigo, Departamento de Bioloxía funcional e ciencias da saúde, Facultade de fisioterapia, Pontevedra, Spain.
Introduction:
Wind instrumentalists and vocalists depend heavily on the efficiency of the respiratory system, as air management directly influences sound quality, expressiveness, and endurance during performance. Respiratory muscle training (RMT) has proven benefits in various clinical and sports contexts, but its application in the field of music has been little explored.
Objective:
To review the literature to evaluate the effectiveness of respiratory training on pulmonary and vocal performance variables in wind instrumentalists and vocalists.
Methods:
Searches were conducted in January 2026 using MeSH terms and keywords in the PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. Randomized controlled clinical trials evaluating the effect of RMT in wind instrumentalists and vocalists were included.
Results:
Seven studies met the eligibility criteria. Most used the POWERbreathe device and reported improvements in respiratory muscle strength, spirometric parameters, and phonation. The methodological quality was considered moderate, with adequate randomization but no blinding procedure.
Conclusion:
Respiratory training improves strength and ventilatory capacity, although its impact on musical performance is inconclusive. Methodological heterogeneity limits generalization. It may be useful in music training if implemented appropriately. More rigorous studies with larger samples are required.
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