Body Mapping for Musicians

Michelangelo Buonarroti, ca. 1510–11

Studies have shown that up to 84% of musicians suffer from pain or injury that have long-term effects on their career – not from accidents, but from how they move.


That’s where Body Mapping comes in.

What is Body Mapping?

Body Mapping is a form of somatic education that is dedicated to teaching musicians to recognize harmful movements and replace them with efficient, powerful, and natural movements—based on the body’s true design.

Why learn it?

Musicians train for years to master their craft—but few are ever taught how to move. Without that knowledge, many develop habits that lead to tension, pain, and even long-term injury.

But these injuries aren’t inevitable—they’re preventable

Rooted in anatomy and movement science,
Body Mapping helps musicians move with awareness—supporting ease, expression, and longevity in their practice.

Stephanie teaches Body Mapping for Musicians at Portland State University.

As a licensed educator and Training Mentor for the Association of Body Mapping Education (ABME), she trains musicians and music educators to accurately support and enhance movement in practice and performance with the goal of preventing and eliminating injury.

She offers group and one-on-one sessions for specific injuries, in addition to independent workshops.

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  • "The best class I've taken at Portland State University.

    Every student (not just musicians) should be required to take body mapping. Profs Marsh and Bernards are kind, professional, and highly informed on how to help musicians move, feel, and play better.”

    – PSU Student

  • "Perfect for teachers of young students and musicians of all levels.

    The class focuses on a key topic of musician's health and wellness as both an injury prevention and as an almost occupational theory response to body stresses.

    This class has had a huge positive impact on both my mental and physical health. I'm so grateful this was a class I was able to take.

    Thank you, Prof. Bernards, and Dr. Marsh!

    I am really surprised by what I learned from this course. There was so much valuable information that I got, and very important for all of musicians.”

    – PSU Student

  • "Highly skilled as a teacher, pianist and composer, Stephanie brings a vibrant life force to every lesson and class.

    I have taught Body Mapping with Stephanie Bernards for several years at Portland State University. Her unique ability to see the potential of each musician enhances creativity and community in our classroom.”

    – Lisa Marsh, Director Coordinate Movement Program, Portland State University