Training in classical guitar for patients with Parkinson's disease

CAPO: Classical Guitar to Alleviate Parkinson's Disease Symptom Onus

Not applicable Interventional University of Washington · NCT05917704

This study is testing whether taking classical guitar lessons can help improve movement, mood, and overall quality of life for people with Parkinson's disease.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages50 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Washington Academic / other
Locations1 site (Seattle, Washington)
Trial IDNCT05917704 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effects of classical guitar lessons on motor function, mood, and quality of life in patients with Parkinson's disease. Participants will engage in weekly guitar lessons and physical therapy sessions over a 12-week period, with assessments conducted at the start, six weeks in, and at the end of the study. The study will involve 40 participants divided into two groups, alternating between guitar lessons and physical therapy. Data will also be collected using the StrivePD application to monitor symptoms.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 50-90 diagnosed with Parkinson's disease by a Movement Disorder specialist.

Not a fit: Patients who are professional musicians, have formal music training, or are currently receiving physical therapy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance motor skills, reduce depression and anxiety, and improve overall quality of life for patients with Parkinson's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive effects of music and rhythm-based activities on Parkinson's disease symptoms, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 50-90 years old
* Diagnosis with Parkinson's disease by a Movement Disorder specialist

Exclusion Criteria:

* Professional musician or formal music training
* Inability to play a classical guitar physically
* Inability to follow instruction
* Receiving physical therapy at the time of the study
* Unable to attend all sessions of study

Where this trial is running

Seattle, Washington

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Parkinson DiseaseParkinson's diseasemusic-based therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.