Klarinet Archive - Posting 000113.txt from 1999/06

From: "J. Michael Norsworthy" <mnorswor@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: [kl] Posture, Hara, Tai Chi, etc.
Date: Wed, 2 Jun 1999 10:54:53 -0400

Alan.Woodcock@-----.net wrote:

> Does anybody use the techniques of Hara or Tai Chi when giving a standing
> performance?

While I do not use these specifically mentioned techniques consciously during
performance, I DO use the Alexander Technique. Alexander Technique was
something rather simple for me to get a handle on (probably because of 14 years
of martial arts training, including Tai Chi). I noticed that after I finished
my lessons (and you're NEVER finished) I had a video tape done of one of my
concerts where I was soloist with orchestra. I usually sit when I play and
this time, I decided to stand. I noticed a significant improvement from the
last time I had seen myself standing and was actually pretty pleased with the
way I looked (not to be confused with narcissism).

I think there is definite benefit to all of these techniques. I found myself
using a lot of principles from Tai Chi while I was taking Alexander Technique
lessons and this, at least partly, shows their similiarity. It's all about
using your body in the most effective manner possible.

That's my $.02 for what it's worth.

Best,
J. Michael Norsworthy
mnorswor@-----.edu

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