A demonstration of what can be accomplished with breathing exercises (respiratory therapy) and electronic wind instruments.

See the Explanation page and download the sheet music at our Download page!

Introducing

Hallo. My name is Sylvia Smit and I am 31 years of age.

I was born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (type2), a type of motor neuron disease and have been in a electric wheelchair from a young age. A year and a half ago I moved in with my boyfriend into a 'Focus' home ( assisted accommodation). Until then I was living with my parents. After finishing high school I worked as a receptionist/ telephone operator for nearly 10 years. When I moved I also resigned from my job and now I am looking for work. At the moment I am doing some voluntary work.

Six months ago I happened upon the website of a special school, Mytylschool De Brug. I read a piece on breathing exercises with electronic wind instruments. I liked the idea. I used to do breathing exercises and found them boring. No fun instruments, just breathe-in, breathe-out. Because I like music and I was looking for a hobby I contacted Ruud van der Wel. Since last autumn I have been having lessons on the WX 5 every week. I play the instrument with one hand. The keys are very light to touch, so despite my muscle weakness I have no trouble playing. I gained a great hobby and it is good exercise for my lungs too!

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Sylvia uses both hands in the single hand method. The WX5 is mounted on a low stand. To get the right angle we use an iron strip. She uses a home made mount to put the WX5 on a microphone stand.

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