Music-making is the movement coordination that depends on connections throughout the body. Reminding your nervous system of the connections is an important part of practicing.
For example, as you read this post, scrunch up the toes of both feet. Notice how scrunching activates muscles and alters how you contact the ground, the chair (if you are sitting) and your torso. When we make music only using the playing/singing zone, (for me, this is mid rib cage and up) many other muscles brace. This bracing does affect the muscles and movements in the ‘playing zone’, causing them to become more effortful.
Because tension from the bracing is transmits through the network of muscles and soft tissue. It’s akin to having a weighted backpack on as you perform. The body must manage the backpack's weight AND move to produce sound. I don’t know anyone who would volunteer for this gig!
This movement is a great prep for playing/singing AND a great reset during practice & between pieces backstage. I first learned it from my former NEC colleague, Drew Worden while working on wellness initiatives at NEC. I have added additional cues that more closely relate it to our craft. Enjoy!
Be Curious!
No posts
Comments
Nothing yet. Say the first thing.
Sign in to join the conversation.