Abstract
Objective
To evaluate whether having a cleft palate with or without cleft lip (CP ± L) influences the performance of a child on a wind instrument.
Design
Cross-sectional.
Setting
This study was conducted at Asociación San Lucas (Peru), which has a multidisciplinary care program for children with CP ± L. Free recorder lessons are offered to all patients aged 6–8 years. After that, the children can switch to flute, clarinet, violin, viola, or cello. For a fee, children without CP ± L can also participate in the music program.
Participants
All children with and without CP ± L who were participating in the music program and were able to play the recorder, flute, or clarinet (N = 43).
Main Outcome Measures
Quantitative and qualitative performance exercises: maximum blowing duration, highest note, lowest note, diminuendo, crescendo, and sound quality.
Results
No significant differences in performance were found between children with and without CP ± L. Older children and children with more experience on their instrument demonstrated a significantly longer blowing duration and better sound quality. Within the CP ± L group, those with a satisfactory surgery result had a significantly longer blowing duration than those with a partly satisfactory result (eg, presence of a fistula, palatal surgery revisions, or (need of) pharingoplasty). Furthermore, children with bilateral cleft lip and palate performed diminuendo significantly less smoothly than those with the unilateral type.
Conclusion
Children with and without CP ± L demonstrated equally good performances on the recorder, flute, and clarinet. Therefore, families and caregivers should not discourage children with CP ± L from learning to play these wind instruments.
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