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People Profile: Billy McLaughlin
composer. For twenty years, he astounded audiences around the world with his complex and rhythmic music.
But almost a decade ago, Billy lost his career and the ability to create the music he loved.
In 1997, Billy began to really struggle with playing solo
guitar. His fret hand was giving him constant problems as he tried to make
music. Over the next two years it became clear something much worse was
threatening his career.
“Something had crept in....into my hand, my wrist, my arm....an unwanted guest that wouldn't leave,” recalls Billy. “I had no name for this visitor who caused my fingers to suddenly curl, caused the music to veer out of control as audiences cringed, caused my solo career to slowly…grind to a halt.”
Billy McLaughlin performed for attemdees of the 4th Children & Family Dystonia Symposium in 2007.
Facing a musician’s worst nightmare, Billy was devastated.
“I had never heard of focal dystonia or that such a condition existed,” says
Billy “I had attended a major university school of music for a performance
degree and never heard a word about this career ending malady. I never saw it
mentioned in a guitar magazine or music education publication.”
Soon after his diagnosis, Billy started treatments, including extended carpal release therapy, acupuncture, massage and biofeedback. He also experimented with Botox injections, which can provide temporary relief for some focal dystonia-affected individuals.
Choosing
to go against doctors’ recommendations to quit music and look for other work,
Billy focused on his songwriting and returned to his ensemble which was less
demanding for his hands. By 2002, it was clear that focal dystonia had ended
Billy’s career as a virtuoso guitarist.
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