» The Feldenkrais Method for Musicians

As musicians we express ourselves through our instrument or our voice and our body movements in order to transform the musical concept into audible music. These movements are for the most part gentle, precise and well calculated movements of the hands, the mouth and with some instruments, of the feet as well. Overall, they should harmonize with the entire body and the breathing. Playing a music instrument or singing needs certain physical effort, which, if not used consciously and well calculated, can lead to stiffness and pain. Some of the playing positions, which are to some extent determined by the instrument, are in contrast with the natural movement of the human body, for example: an asymmetrical position in flute, violin and guitar playing; bending the body forward in contrabass playing and the horizontal motion of both hands in straight lines as in string or piano playing. By playing a music instrument or singing we use certain muscles, tendons and joints in a very specific way, for several hours a day, for years and frequently in situations of mental stress.

It is this situation that the Feldenkrais Method can be a real help: The method relates to the habits of movement that we have acquired over the years, offering alternative patterns and new forms of motion. The Feldenkrais Method is a direct, simple and perceptible way of improving coordination, distribution of strength and of becoming acquainted with our abilities. We learn to perceive improper efforts and to reorganize our movement in the manner that is most convenient for the desired purpose, instead of exerting excessive strength in our actions. Enhancing our inner awareness of body movement as it does, instrumental playing can become a challenge for finding the easiest, the most efficient and the most pleasant way to perform the composition. Here is the chance to get ride of the pains that are caused by playing, or for preventing them.

The Feldenkrais Method guides us on how to learn and as a result, contributes to a new understanding of teaching. By using the method, we achieve greater comfort and confidence in our performance.