Alexander Technique and Physical Therapy
The Alexander Technique


 
 
 

Performing Arts


      What are your goals as a performing artist?
        Balance?
        Presence?
        Ease?
        Integrated and supple movement without force?
        Consistency in performance?
        Sensitivity, expression, virtuosity?
        Fuller breathing?
        Reducing performance anxiety?
        Overcoming habitual reactions detrimental to the outcome you desire?

    A study of the Alexander Technique can be a strong component in your development as a performing artist. For nearly 100 years, actors, dancers, singers and musicians have studied the Alexander Technique in order to accomplish the goals outlined above.

    The Alexander Technique brings attention to the body and breath for the singer, identifies the seat and provides back support for the musician, offers simplicity of stance, walking, and sitting for the dancer, and establishes a neutral stance for the actor.

    These discoveries are often the turning point in bridging technique with performance. The performing artist rises to a new level of sensory awareness, mental acuity and energy that augments confidence, expression, and ultimately virtuosity.

    The Alexander Technique is taught in conservatory and university programs including the Juilliard School, New England Conservatory of Music, Aspen Music Center, Brevard Music Center, San Francisco Conservatory, Boston Conservatory, Manhattan School of Music, Northwestern, Indiana University, University of Cincinnati, Hart College of Music, and the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television.

    Professional performing artists who have incorporated the Alexander Technique into their disciplines include Sir Colin Davis, William Hurt, Jeremy Irons, James Earl Jones, Kevin Kline, Paul McCartney, Kelly McGillis, Paul Newman, Lynn Redgrave, Maggie Smith, Mary Steenbergen, Sting, Robin Williams, Joanne Woodward, members of the Trish Brown Dance Company, the Metropolitan Opera, and the New York Philharmonic Orchestra.


The Musician's Resource

 

"Of all the disciplines that form the actor training program, none is more vital, enriching and transformative than the Alexander Technique."
Harold Stone, Associate Director - Theater Department, The Juilliard School