Gathering Resources: Alexander Technique Updates

Hello friends,

During these last few weeks, I have noticed myself oriented inward. Pulling back from situations that feel stressful, reconsidering my commitments, noticing where I am spending more energy than is necessary. Perhaps as we venture deeper into the Autumn months, I am gathering my resources and squirreling away nuts for winter.

As a result, I have decided to pause the Mindful Movement class at the Acton Recreation Center due to low enrollment. I hope to partner with them or a similar institution in the future, but right now I wish to gather my energy and clarify my mission.

This year, I intend to come back to my roots to focus my offerings on Alexander Technique instruction for musicians. I will still offer private lessons and a few classes specifically designed for other populations. (See below for info about the monthly Parent/Caregiver Monthly Support Group in Acton – next session is Oct 15). My long-term vision–Alexander Technique for all–remains a foundational value of my teaching. For right now, it feels prudent to focus my time, energy, and outreach efforts towards the communities closest to my heart.

What do I mean by musicians? I work with music students of all ages, amateur musicians, and professionals at all levels. I work with solo and choral singers, instrumentalists, conductors, and music educators. If you took piano lessons as a child decades ago, you are a musician. If you love to sing in the shower, you are a musician!

I welcome the opportunity to introduce AT to beginners as well as offer refresher and ongoing lessons to those who know the basics. This work can support musicians throughout all stages of their lives.

Here are three ways musicians can learn Alexander Technique with me:

Weekly Online Class: Introduction to AT for Musicians

I am planning an 8-week Zoom class starting the week of Oct. 12. It will likely take place on Wednesday or Friday with a start time around 11 am or 12 pm Eastern. Most appropriate for those with previous AT experience, advanced music students and professionals. Payment will be on a donation basis so that all who want to join can participate. Please contact me if you are interested. More details to come!

Topics we will cover:

Learn the basic principles of AT (Conscious Awareness, Psycho-Physical Unity, Inhibition, Direction, End-gaining, Primary Movement, Use vs. Functioning, Means-whereby, Stress Responses, Natural Breathing)
Manage and prevent pain and discomfort
Increase your postural awareness
Notice patterns of excess muscular tension and learn to redistribute that tension for more efficient playing
Manage performance anxiety
Experience your whole self as the instrument of musical expression
(Re)connect with your body, mind, and spirit
Experience joy, flow, and ease while playing
Learn to practice in “AT mode”

Workshops

Stay tuned for one-time workshops in the MetroWest area. Last year, I offered Embodied Awareness for Singers at a church in Stow and a series of AT workshops for Suzuki instrumental students age 10-18 at Concord Academy.

Have a great idea for a workshop for your choir, orchestra, church, or school group? Contact me for ideas, rates, and availability!

Private 1-1 Lessons

As always, I offer private one-on-one lessons at my home studio in South Acton. I charge on a sliding scale of $75-$100 per hour. I take a tailored approach so we can address your specific concerns and work at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Read testimonials from current and former students and reach out today for more information.

I look forward to connecting with you.

Take care,

Hannah

When: 3rd Thursdays, 7:00 pm – 8:15 pm. Fall 3-class series: Oct. 15, Nov. 19, Dec. 17.

Where: Illuminated Birth, 525 Massachusetts Ave, Acton, MA 01720.

Who: Parents and caregivers of all genders, identities, and ages are welcome.

Cost: $75 per person for the 3-class series or $30 per person per class for the drop-in rate.

Registration: If you plan to attend, please register or contact me 48 hours before each class so I can plan accordingly. The space is small! For October, please register by Oct. 13.