Product Description

The problems of a musician may have many causes and many possible solutions. While working conditions, stress, and instrument and furniture design are all significant factors, the most important aspect of a musician's life remains not what is done to them, but what they do to themselves. F.M. Alexander (1869-1955) saw the individual as a whole, and talked not of `the body' but of `the self'; not of `posture', but of `use'. The aim of his technique is not to teach you to do what is right, but to help you stop doing what is wrong, through a series of practical procedures which awaken your awareness and allow you to develop your innate potential. The Alexander Technique applies to all areas of musical activity, from technique, sound production, and interpretation, to daily practice, rehearsal routines, and the mitigating of stage fright and health problems. This book, by an experienced professional musician and Alexander teacher, is the first to deal specifically with the applications of the Technique to music making.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #98103 in Books
• Published on: 1997-02-20
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 336 pages

Customer Reviews

The Alexander technique for singers and instrumentalists.
This book is really only suitable for those who have already had Alexander Technique lessons. The author demonstrates how the principles of the Technique can be used by musicians and the book is equally helpful for performers and teachers. The chapters on stage fright and daily practising I found particularly interesting. There are lots of ideas that need to be tried out on an instrument, and the author manages to present his material in such a way that it can be applied to any instrument, singing and/or conducting.
I am a little puzzled as to why descriptions of Alexander procedures are included, because,as the author states, the Technique cannot be learnt by reading a set of instructions. Also, as the author states, all Alexander teachers use a slightly different approach. I did, however enjoy reading about the philosophy behind the Alexander Technique and there are some really interesting photos. If you are an Alexander enthusiast and an instrunmental/singing teacher or performer, this book will help you apply the Technique to your playing, singing, teaching and conducting.