Posture and freedom of movement
- Maintain an appropriate balanced and relaxed posture, both sitting and/or standing, developing stamina to play for longer periods of time:
- holding the instrument with more ease and without tension
- in a manner which facilitates freedom of movement and the development of a secure technique
Continue to emphasise how to hold the instrument without tension and in a manner that facilitates freedom of movement.
Some learners with poor posture and/or tension problems find relaxation methods useful, e.g. yoga, Alexander Technique.
Continue to use long phrase lengths in warm-ups, over a large range of notes and dynamics. Ensure that learners evaluate their posture and make necessary adjustments.
Ask learners to devise their own checklist of the main sources of tension. Discuss how tension can be alleviated.
Draw attention to the importance of maintaining a relaxed posture whilst developing the stamina necessary for extended performance.
Continue to encourage positive body language when performing.
Encourage learners to use imagery in order to convey the character and mood of the music. Discuss how posture may contribute towards communication.
Provide opportunities for learners to observe how others communicate in performance, e.g. masterclasses, concerts.
Encourage learners to attend a wide range of live performances where possible, and/or watch live performances online.
Help learners to use their posture to communicate musical intention, e.g. beginning and/or changing tempo in an ensemble performance.
Discuss ways in which learners can develop the physical and mental stamina required to play longer, more demanding pieces.
Explore the progression of this Learning Objective
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