Most people have an idea of what Pilates might be, and usually that idea involves lots of abdominal work in a group class at a gym. While that’s a common misconception, Pilates is a much larger method of movement involving specific equipment, springs, and over 600 exercises, created by a man named Joseph Pilates. While […]
In this month’s video, Dr. Randy Kertz discusses how classical string musicians can avoid injury by being aware of their balance as they play. Dr. Kertz’s monthly column addresses how musicians can avoid injury, how they can identify things they may do to cause injury, and offer general health information and tips for musicians of […]
Presents a detailed explanation of Body Mapping accompanied by numerous illustrations.
I love a challenge. If I am approached with a project that addresses a style I haven’t worked with before, or I am asked to advise on coordinating the string parts themselves, I am all in. And it’s not for any lack of interest with other projects that I’m associated with, but I have this obsession with growth through experience…
At a young age, Prateek was diagnosed with impaired hearing, but that didn’t stop him from pursuing his dream of becoming a music teacher. He had to work twice as hard to make sure he was successful. Whenever one of his students feels discouraged, he always tells them that if he can accomplish his dream despite all the challenges he faced, anyone can do it.
The Conn-Selmer facemask, model CSFM1, is a deluxe adjustable one-size-fits all facemask designed with an opening to allow the musician to play his/her instrument while having a fully functional facemask when not playing an instrument. It is made from 92% poly, 8% spandex, a medium fabric weight of 240 GSM (grams per square metre), and […]
In this month’s video, Dr. Randy Kertz discusses better health practices for musicians who play brass and woodwind instruments, specifically, posture. Posture plays a large part in effective breathing techniques, which affects stamina, tone, and playability. In short, if your posture is lousy, your breathing is not as effective. Dr. Kertz’s monthly column addresses how […]
It’s rare that songwriters set out to write a new song with the goal of making it “therapeutic” for their listeners. Most of us write songs because we enjoy the process, and many of us find it therapeutic. Some of us also write songs because we’re dreaming of that big hit. (Who hasn’t secretly entertained […]
Techniques on how to gain greater fluidity of movement while playing to improve the quality of the experience are offered in this manual for serious piano players. What Every Pianist Needs to Know About the Body by Thomas Carson Mark encourages musicians to develop a broader understanding of the involvement of the entire body in […]
What movements, then, produce the most desirable sounds at the piano? Drawing from experience in the fields of piano instruction, medicine, and Body Mapping, author Lisa Marsh presents a detailed discussion — complete with anatomical drawings and music examples — about the types of movement that contribute to a healthy, fluid, and versatile piano technique. […]