Alexander Technique

What makes the Alexander Technique so rewarding to explore?

Because it is about us–our habits, our reactions, about how, from one moment to the next, we pay attention in our activities.

As musicians, we express ourselves through our instrument, and as players we hold it close to ourselves. In time it becomes a part of us. The Alexander Technique can help us to understand how this relationship to our instrument can go wrong.

 “You translate everything, whether physical, mental or spiritual, into muscle tension.”  -FM Alexander

What are the fundamentals of the Alexander Technique?

In order for our coordination to work well, the relationship between the head, neck and spine must be allowed to function without interference. The spine must be able to lengthen in activity rather than contract. This contraction is an all-too-common habit in musicians and has a harmful effect on freedom of movement. What is natural movement can, in most cases, be recovered through conscious application of the principles of the Technique. With regular lessons, we can begin to observe ourselves in movement and at rest, and to learn how not to interfere with our natural coordination.

 “There is no such thing as a right position, but there is such a thing as a right direction.” – FM Alexander

It is a journey of self-discovery which is both demanding and rewarding. The inner poise and strength gained through the study of the Technique is of great value in daily living.

Selma Gokcen has been working with musicians for over 30 years, 20 years of that time in the Alexander Technique, helping them to understand and improve upon their ways of playing and performing. Studio One is her newly renovated space in London devoted to the Alexander Technique, presenting diverse events annually by distinguished teachers of the work.