Expertly arranged Opera by Richard Wagner from the Kalmus Edition series.
2013-08-27 2013-08-27File Name: B00ETH6DRY
Review
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. my brain works better. EveryoneBy MissyIve studied Alexander Technique for several years; and it has changed the quality of my life. Im a singer; and had body tension issues which made it harder to use my voice with the freedom I wanted. Now; if I focus on what Ive been taught; I can do whatever I want with my voice. Getting the mind-body connection in balance makes it possible to be expressive vocally and emotionally. I also have disk damage due to going whitewater rafting; so my back used to be a problem. Now since I made the Alexander Technique a constant part of my day; my back never hurts ! I also know the method has made me a calmer person; which helps with many aspects of my life. Im on the Board of a not-for-profit organization and the technique has helped with the usual boardroom tensions. When my body is free of tension ; my brain works better. Everyone; not just performers; will benefit from reading this book by Bill Connington. The book is clear; easy to understand; well-laid out; and authoritative. There 133 exercises that you can practice at home to help you become more relaxed; and physically aligned. This book teaches you to be your own best teacher; since you are with yourself all the time. Because of the Alexander Technique and this book; I am more aware of my mind-body and breathing in daily life. When I catch myself tightening and tensing; I can bring myself out of it; in an easy. I highly recommend this book for students who are studying the performing arts; professional performers; and anyone who is interested in stress reduction; mind-body centering; enhanced performance; and improved use of the self in daily life.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. A Useful Resource for AllBy Eugenia ClineThe Alexander Technique is a powerful tool for anyone who would like to be able to use his or her body in a way that eliminates stress; tension; and pain. It has long been studied by actors; musicians; dancers; and athletes; but it can help everyone; since we all use our bodies as we go about our daily lives. Although Bill Conningtons book; Physical Expression on Stage and Screen: Using the Alexander Technique to Create Unforgettable Performances; was originally conceived to be used as a textbook for acting students; the principles and ideas conveyed can be universally applied by anyone. At 175 pages; the text can be read straight through from beginning to end; but because it is divided into brief chapters which are filled with short exercises; it can be equally helpful for someone who wishes to browse. It can be used by those who have no acquaintance with the Alexander Technique; as well as by those who have studied and practiced it for some time. Connington covers the basic tools of Alexander; and gives many exercises to help readers make discoveries about how they are using their bodies; and where physical tension is manifested. With practice; readers become more familiar with the concepts of use of the self and mind-body awareness. Especially helpful are fourteen videos; found at www.vimeo.com/channels/connington which; with the exception of the last one; are all less than two minutes long; and which vividly illustrate many of the exercises found in the book.On a personal note; as a professional musician; I have found the study of the Alexander Technique to be nothing short of life changing. I have been aware of its existence since my days in music school; when several of my fellow students took private Alexander lessons. Although Alexander Technique is now an integral part of the curriculum at many top music schools in the country; it was rare when I was an undergraduate; and not offered at the school I attended. Three years ago I had the opportunity to participate in a group session in Alexander Technique; and; intrigued by the possibilities; I began private study. The difference it has made in playing my instrument has been profound; and has been noticed by the musicians with whom I collaborate; including conductors and colleagues. Discovering ways to eliminate and reduce tension in my body has enabled me to endure long rehearsals with less pain and discomfort; and to perform more confidently. Being aware of how I use my body; not only while I am standing or sitting on stage; but while living the rest of my life; whether riding the subway; walking down the street; seated at my computer; or chopping vegetables in the kitchen; has given me new insights into how to avoid old habits of slouching and slumping and how to form new habits of standing; sitting and walking tall and upright. The difference in my outlook and self perception is profound: I feel I have a certain inner poise that is projected outward as confidence and self command.I have gratefully added Bill Conningtonrsquo;s book to my library; both as a resource for myself and to use with my private music students; who; like me; can benefit from using the principles of Alexander Technique in their playing. Whether you are new to the Alexander Technique or are looking for reinforcement of what you have learned from previous studies; this book should be an essential part of your collection.4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Bravo!By Ariel Weiss/ATPhilaA brilliant and welcome addition! Connington has provided a clear path for learning for new and continuing students of Alexander Technique alike to experiment with Alexanders discoveries in order to unleash their best functioning. Not only does he demystify the process; but his proactive; upbeat strategy for experiential learning is a true treasure. As an Alexander Technique teacher with over 25 years teaching experience; I highly recommend this to my own students and anyone interested in the Technique.