In these workshops students are often asked to bring their instruments. Generally students are asked to play (for themselves) several times so that they can sense what is evolving in their playing, and also to help make the connection between the more movement based Feldenkrais lessons and their playing.  Colin speaks from his own experience to help frame the experiences the students have in a way that can be both useful and transformative.

Short discussions and times of exchange are important too. It is rare in the music world to find opportunities to exchange on subjects such as concert preparation, performance anxiety, injury and have the possibility to learn from each other. It is also very important that the students leave the workshop not only with a series of new sensations and experiences, but also a minimum of intellectual understanding about the principles of Feldenkrais and how they apply directly to playing.

Attention is given to creating an atmosphere where everyone feels safe and supported so that participants can work on their most important questions and not be afraid or feel defensive. It is when when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and to “make mistakes” that we are generally most open to learning and growing.

Colin tries to approach each musician’s playing with respect and honesty, never wanting to force a theory on anyone and always aware of the challenges involved when one plays in front of colleagues. Most often, musicians all play for themselves, at the same time (in cacophony). Sometimes participants are invited to play for others too, but it is never a requirement.

This work goes very much against the grain of a society that rushes everything, looks for results while ignoring the process, and puts using one’s will over listening and awareness. In this work we balance out the result-oriented training that many of us have experienced with taking time to improve the quality of the process. When we improve our relationship to our whole body and sevles, when we improve quality of movement, technique, expression, confidence and health improve exponentially!

Workshops can be developed around specific themes such as: performance anxiety, preparing an audition, comfort in sitting, grounding, etc.