Training the Movement of Music

LESSONS & WORKSHOPS I teach lessons in voice, piano, and Body Mapping for all instruments. The approach is based on training of movement. This training is founded on a clear communication of how the body is designed and how it can achieve a free, fluid, inclusively aware and emotionally connected musical expression. MUSICIANS MOVE FOR A LIVING This statement comes as a surprise to many, but the intricate and repetitive movements required to play an instrument or sing are equally if not more complex than those performed by athletes or dancers. All over the world musicians are suffering from pain and limitation in their playing. Most musicians' injuries are caused by misuse, i.e. faulty movement patterns, and are preventable. WHAT IS A BODY MAP? The body map is our brain's representation of how we are put together, how large we are, what shape, how we are designed to work. This "map" has a profound influence on how we move. If the body map is accurate, movement is effortless, well supported, and free. If it is inaccurate, the quality of movement suffers and results in tension, pain, even injury. Correcting misconceptions and refining the body map are two of the most effective tools a musician can use to improve movement, alleviate pain and injury, and enhance fluidity and ease of technique. WORKSHOPS IN BODY MAPPING Body Mapping offers students and teachers clear, accurate information about the body. The complete workshop covers the areas of Balance, Breathing, the Arm Structure, Legs, Structures of Singing, Training of Awareness, and Practical Application of Movement. The courses are offered in formats ranging from one or two day workshops to six week classes. It is also common to offer one or two aspects of the course (such as Balance or Breathing) in shorter segments. Throughout my adult life, I have been involved with the study of movement, in particular yoga, T'ai Chi, and mime. From the early 90's I have been a serious student of the Alexander Technique, out of which came an interest in Body Mapping. For the past seven years I have studied and integrated a refined body map into my own playing and performing. I have a BM in Jazz Studies (piano) from Cal State Northridge, and am a graduate of the Dick Grove School of Music. I am a member of Andover Educators, a network of teachers saving, securing and enhancing musical careers with accurate information about the body in movement. For further information go to www.bodymap.org.