The Feldenkrais Method® is a means of becoming more aware of one’s body and how one uses it in order to find more comfort, ease and efficiency in all movement and actions.  For musicians, quality of movement translates directly into sound. When we find more ease, power, and freedom physically, our technique and expression improve exponentially. 

Developed by Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais (1904-1984), an engineer, physicist and world-class Judo master, the Feldenkrais Method is based on principles of neuroscience, physics, biomechanics and child development. It taps into the brain’s neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to change and adapt as a result of experience. It combines the intelligence and precision of the scientist with the intuition and playfulness of the artist.

The lessons consist of simple, guided movements. These movements are designed to increase awareness of the body and habit patterns, guiding individuals to explore new and more efficient ways of moving and eventually creating new pathways in the brain.

The emphasis is on quality and ease of movement. There is no “model” to follow, nor a “right” posture to be attained. Efficiency of movement is found through sensation and awareness rather than through mental willing or muscular strength. 

For musicians the applications are countless. The method can be applied to: 

• find a more efficient technique and overcome stumbling blocks in ones development
• improve stage presence and auditioning skills
• overcome the negative effects of performance anxiety 
• find more physical comfort while playing an instrument
• overcome and prevent potential instrument-related injuries
• create a more resonant, beautiful sound
• improve one’s teaching capacities
• adapt more easily to unexpected conditions
• develop a more creative and embodied relationship to practice and one’s instrument.

Most of all, it can lead to creating and cultivating that “flow” in our playing where nothing seems to get in the way and our inner intention is translated directly into action, into sound and into expression. Through a more embodied relationship to one’s instrument it can help remove all the barriers to fulfilling one’s potential.