Alexander Technique and Body Mapping Principles for the Suzuki Violin Teacher
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Date
2018-11Author
McAlister, Emma E.
Publisher
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Metadata
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http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1793/80149Description
Violin playing is achieved through complex movements. Violinists depend on their
bodies to do repetitive motions, yet many violin teachers do not give enough attention to the
movement components of music making. Suzuki violin teachers often start teaching their
students at a very young age, and continue to teach them through their high school years. Suzuki
violin teachers have a large impact on their students’ playing and have the opportunity to make
sure that there is ease and freedom in their students’ technique. For many, repetitive motions can take a toll on bodies and cause aches and pains.
Statistics from numerous studies indicate that musicians have a significant risk of suffering an
injury from playing their instrument. (Bosi, 2017) Why do these pains occur and how can we
prevent them? The Alexander Technique and Body Mapping principles offer an explanation of
why they occur, and a way to prevent or cure those pains.