Like anyone doing a job involving repetitive actions, musicians are prone to RSI, as well as hand, wrist, shoulder and neck problems. These are mostly related to poor playing posture and over-tensing when playing. Since one of the main principles of the Alexander Technique is to learn to let go of excess tension, it can have a dramatic effect in relieving pain and improving playing technique. Take a look at some of the quotes below from musicians Jane Gregory has worked with.
What music students have to say
I used to have terrible lower back pain from the curvature of my spine but after having a few lessons with Jane and committing myself to doing 15 minutes in the semi-supine position everyday, I feel so much better within myself. The curve is reducing every day, I have no more pain, I feel fitter, lighter on my feet and people have even commented on how well I look. Singing is so much about knowing how every inch of your body feels whilst performing and the Alexander Technique really helps to reinforce this. Simply by thinking, you can break bad habits, not by forcing your muscles to perform tasks, but by releasing and letting your body work alongside the natural forces that surround us. Alexander Technique is great! I really look forward to my lessons, not just because Jane is lovely, but because I will leave after the lesson having learnt something that will benefit me for years to come.
Me’esha Bryan
Professional vocalist — recently toured with
Beverly Knight and Bryan Ferry
Alexander Technique has helped me to become aware of my bad habits. Jane has helped me become more aware of my movements including freeing my neck and jaw and allowing my voice to be more resonant. Even after only a couple of Alexander sessions, my co-writers and producers noticed a change. Overall it is a real benefit to me and helped to improve my physical movements while singing and playing guitar.
Rosalie Deighton
Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist, Recording Artist
The Alexander Technique has been instrumental in solving severe RSI and posture-related nerve and back problems I developed while playing bass intensively. Then my physiotherapist encouraged me to pursue the Technique to address posture issues that were creating numbness in my hands and arms, which is when I sought the help of Jane Gregory. I found that indeed the neck and back work (especially semi-supine technique) along with walking, standing, sitting, playing techniques have eliminated my adverse symptoms. In addition, I have found that the techniques I learned to release tight muscles all over the body significantly reduced my hand and wrist symptoms as well. A by-product of the process has been a significant reduction in lower back pain, which I have had for years. Jane Gregory is an excellent teacher and makes the process very easy to understand and internalise. She continuously seeks creative, personalised solutions to address your specific issues and to help you to easily integrate the Technique into your daily life.
Kim Meyer
Bassist
After having problems with my wrists and shoulders for several months, Alexander Technique helped me to get rid of any pain I was experiencing by freeing up the joints and muscles involved when playing bass. It also helped my technique and overall posture.
James Steel
Bassist
I find The Alexander Technique particularly helpful after a weekend spent travelling cramped up in a coach or car.
Paul Scott
Musician
