Since the Alexander Technique was developed more than 100 hundred years ago, many musicians and actors, including Sir Paul McCartney, Sting, Heath Ledger, and Robin Williams, have turned to this form of movement therapy to not only improve their performances, but to enhance their lives as well.
The Alexander Technique for performers
The Alexander Technique shows musicians and actors how to use the body correctly, with less stress and chance of injury, so they can perform at their optimal level. If you play an instrument, you know what this means: the repetitive movements inherent in each performance, the muscle tension that develops and becomes chronic because of how you hold your instrument, sit or stand in a certain position, and repeat certain motions again and again and again.
Thus when Paul McCartney holds his guitar, or Heath Ledger played the Joker or Ennis, or Yehudi Menuhin cradled his violin, they exposed themselves to physically demanding postures and movements that could result in repetitive strain injury (RSI). Performers must also deal with the stress and anxiety associated with their actual performances.
Specific benefits of the Alexander Technique
The concepts taught by teachers of the Alexander Technique help musicians and actors release tension in their bodies and allow them to perform in a more balanced, relaxed, and vigorous way. Alexander Technique teachers observe how their students move and conduct themselves in everyday life and, in the case of musicians, how they play their instruments, and then show them how to change habits that are compromising their movements and coordination.
Performers learn how to become more aware of their body and how they move and respond to stress, and then learn new ways to deal with tension, nervousness, and discomfort. Musicians learn how to interact with their instrument, and actors become more aware of their body in space. Musicians and actors who sing learn how to keep their neck and jaw relaxed so they can produce a more fluid and resonant sound.
Where to learn the Alexander Technique
The Alexander Technique is taught as part of the curriculum of many conservatories and university music departments. To find teachers of the Alexander Technique in the Phoenix area, visit the website of the American Society for the Alexander Technique.
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Also see "Chronic pain relieved by Alexander Technique"
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