The Alexander Technique has always been intertwined with the performing arts, as FM Alexander himself was an actor who developed the Technique to deal with his vocal difficulties. Today Alexander Technique is taught in music and drama schools around the world, from primary and secondary schools up to world class institutions such as The Juilliard School and The Royal Academy of Music. (Click here for a list of schools where the Technique is taught).
I have worked for the past 10 years at the Royal Academy of Music, teaching Alexander Technique to undergraduate, masters and postgrad students studying a wide range of musical disciplines; these include opera and musical theatre students, as well as conductors and composers. Musical performance presents many physical challenges as instruments require intricate and complex movement, often maintained over long hours of practice and rehearsal. The psychological requirements of performance add to the difficulty. Alexander Technique teaches musicians to become aware of movement patterns that are physically damaging and that affect sound quality and fluidity of movement. They also address issues such as anxiety that can hinder performance. The outcome is that musicians can perform better and avoid injury.
If you are interested in learning more about how Alexander Technique can help you as a musical performer, then I can offer:
- in-person private lessons for musicians
- online private lessons
- onsite private or group lessons at music schools
- workshops for schools and music groups
- workshops for instructors who would like to understand how to help their students
Please feel free to contact me to discuss what suits you or your institution.
Alexander Technique with Vicky Walsh 