Klarinet Archive - Posting 000009.txt from 1996/05

From: "Anne M. Bell" <AMBGN@-----.EDU>
Subj: Vital Capacity
Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 10:09:34 -0400

Someone just remarked on musicians (wind) being in good physical
shape. I recently had an interesting experience. I was in a biology
lab and we were doing experiments to perform statistical analysis. One
of the tests was for lung capacity. It is normally related to height
and weight. As a female of average height and weight my vital capacity
would have been about a liter less than it was! As it was there were
several average sized men with less lung capacity than I had. Since
I don't run unless it's to catch my toddler I can only attribute this
to years of playing.
When I noticed this I came up with a theory of my own- when I do run
for my annual PT (National Guard) I pass it even if I haven't been running.
In fact, most of the people in the band pass. I think that the added
lung capacity and endurance come in handy. Music- it's a health thing.
How's that for a new slogan?
Just a favor please- If anyone has an address or number for McFarlands-
I would really appreciate it. They are a doublereed supplier and also
resell instruments. I'm searching for an Oboe... I'm also sure they
have reed knives, stones, etc.

Thanks!
Anne M. Bell
AMBGN@-----.edu