Prelude: Visual Score Study/ Baton Placement and Alexander Technique

Well the first week is over...

I'm not really sure if I had clear expectations for what this first (prelude) week was going to be, but the week turned out differently than even the vaguest expectations I had.

This week at the Conductors Institute at Bard College was an optional "prelude" to the actual Conductors Institute, which begins on Monday. There were two vastly different classes I was taking this week: "Alexander Technique" and "Visual Score Study/Baton Placement"

The morning session was Alexander technique, which is difficult to explain. The best thing I can come up with to describe it is "micro-yoga". Basically, the point to tech good use of the body. Good use, being defined as efficiency in movement/posture with minimum effort. It's also has a lot to do with relaxation and self awareness. There was also a lot of talk about energy flow. Don't worry if my description of it confuses you. As our teacher, Alexander Farkas, said the first day, "Alexander technique is difficult to explain, so it must be experienced." Mr Farkas would use gentle touch and directives to get me to relax certain muscles in my hand, arm, neck, and back. To feel a lengthening of the spine and floating of the hands, head, legs in movement.
It was weird at first but I could really feel it work. It was a very relaxing and yet stimulating way to spend every morning. Especially after the afternoon sessions of the day before.

So since this post is turning into a VERY long one, I'm going to tell you all about the afternoon sessions later. Don't worry it will be soon, because I already have a lot of it written. It's just going to be too much for one post if I finish it....

Stay tuned...

-Jeff