How to Use the Alexander Technique as a Musician

If you are a musician, you may want to consider giving the Alexander Technique a try. The Alexander Technique has been used by musicians for years and is said to help reduce the stress of performance, as well as lessen potential for injury. Musicians must perform complicated and strenuous movements, and they often face repetitive stress injuries. The Alexander Technique may work to prevent such injuries, whether you are a career musician or creating music for fun. Many famous musicians swear by it. There may be something to their confidence in it, as the Juilliard School of Performing Arts in New York offers lessons in the technique.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

1. Go the American Society for the Alexander Technique Web site to search for trained teachers in your area (see Resources below).

2. Use your mouse to click the "Find A Teacher Link."

3. Take a look at the states available and choose one from the drop-down box.

4. Peruse the list of Alexander Technique instructors to find one near you.

5. Call or email a few instructors to obtain rates and availability information.

6. Explain that you are a musician and ask each instructor about his or her experience giving lessons to individuals in your field.

7. Choose the instructor with whom you feel most comfortable and arrange for your first lesson.

8. Learn more about the Alexander Technique and how it may be helpful to musicians by visiting the Alexander Technique Center Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Though you could use an online Alexander Technique course or learn about the method from books, most experienced users agree that learning from one-on-one lessons is best.
• If you choose to learn the Alexander Technique from written material, you can expect to find many books available at budget prices. Lessons are typically available at moderate prices.
• If you sustain an injury that is very painful or limits your movement, don't use the Alexander Technique alone to manage it. Instead, seek the advice of a medical doctor to ascertain whether or not you need medical treatment.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.

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