The Alexander Technique for Singers
Your breath is the fuel for your voice. The quality of your voice depends on your ability to deliver the flow of air through your vocal chords.
How you sit, stand and move is a big factor in how well you breathe. If you need convincing, start singing and then allow your body to slump - how does that change the sound of your voice? Is it easier, or harder to breathe and sing when slouched?
The answer is obvious: your ribs move better when you're poised, and when your ribs can move, the air can flow.
Singers have used the Alexander Technique for over a hundred years and it's taught in most colleges of music. Famous singers who use it include Sting, Paul McCartney, Madonna and Lesley Garrett
In addition to assisting with your breathing and posture, the method can help in other areas of your performance. The strategies taught help you to prepare and deal with performance anxiety and the rigors of being an artist on stage. Not so obvious, learning these practical methods can show you how to get in to the state of mind artists call 'The Flow'. And once in this state, more benefits will literally flow. Learning how to rid yourself of habitual muscle tension can free up your whole body to promote spontaneity and freedom to your voice.
How you sit, stand and move is a big factor in how well you breathe. If you need convincing, start singing and then allow your body to slump - how does that change the sound of your voice? Is it easier, or harder to breathe and sing when slouched?
The answer is obvious: your ribs move better when you're poised, and when your ribs can move, the air can flow.
Singers have used the Alexander Technique for over a hundred years and it's taught in most colleges of music. Famous singers who use it include Sting, Paul McCartney, Madonna and Lesley Garrett
In addition to assisting with your breathing and posture, the method can help in other areas of your performance. The strategies taught help you to prepare and deal with performance anxiety and the rigors of being an artist on stage. Not so obvious, learning these practical methods can show you how to get in to the state of mind artists call 'The Flow'. And once in this state, more benefits will literally flow. Learning how to rid yourself of habitual muscle tension can free up your whole body to promote spontaneity and freedom to your voice.
Alexander Technique Courses for Singers
I've designed a course specifically for singers that can be delivered at your theatre, school or place of practice, to groups or individuals. I can also offer variations on the course based upon your specific requirements. For example, should you wish to focus on dealing with performance anxiety, a one-hour session can be arranged. Read client testimonials here.
Introduction to The Alexander Technique for Singers | Duration: 2.5 hours
The course objective is for actors to recognise the factors that underpin performance. The two hour session includes:-
Advanced courses
These modular courses are open to those completing the course above. These can be delivered individually in 1 hour sessions, or on a half-day course. The sessions cover:
If you'd like to book a session for your group and talk about costs, please contact me today.
Introduction to The Alexander Technique for Singers | Duration: 2.5 hours
The course objective is for actors to recognise the factors that underpin performance. The two hour session includes:-
- Make sitting and standing easy on your back
- The impact of posture on breathing
- Freeing up your throat
- Being in the moment
- Preparing to prepare
- Relaxation techniques
Advanced courses
These modular courses are open to those completing the course above. These can be delivered individually in 1 hour sessions, or on a half-day course. The sessions cover:
- Understanding and applying the Marginal Gains and Deliberate Practice methods
- Using the As-If principle to advance your level of performance
- Mindful preparation and performance
- Health & Well-being for the singer
- Visualisation techniques to improve poise
If you'd like to book a session for your group and talk about costs, please contact me today.