New Partnership Is Music To Athletes’ Ears

New Partnership Is Music To Athletes’ Ears

Purpose-designed music to enhance elite athlete performance is a real possibility after the Federal Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp, announced in Melbourne today a unique partnership between two of Australia’s finest institutions.

The Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM) and the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) have agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding called Excellence² (Excellence Squared) to enhance elite performance in music and sport.

‘The partnership between the ANAM and the AIS will highlight the problems, techniques and solutions musicians and athletes share in the pursuit of excellence,’ Senator Kemp said.

‘It will explore opportunities to enhance the performance of elite musicians and athletes.’

Senator Kemp said the partnership would provide the ANAM with access to AIS expertise in psychology, biomechanics and physiology, preparation and recovery and career education.

‘On the other hand, music is already widely used by athletes in preparation, and as a mental focus tool,’ the Minister said.

‘Studies also show great potential for music to play an even greater role in improving athletic training and performance.’

Senator Kemp said the ANAM would contribute its expertise to the AIS by developing music for athletes to use in preparation, training and recovery.

‘Excellence2 could lead to the world-first development of specialist music purpose-designed for enhancing sports performance.

‘As the Minister responsible for both the arts and sport, I’m delighted to see them providing expertise to enhance each other. It is an example of the kind of innovation that will help ensure Australia’s best can continue to become world’s best.’

16 July 2002

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