Posture and freedom of movement
- Maintain an appropriate balanced and relaxed posture, developing stamina to play for longer periods of time
Continue to emphasise the importance of good posture and freedom of movement.
Some learners with poor posture and/or tension problems find relaxation methods useful, e.g. yoga, Alexander Technique.
Ask learners to devise their own checklist of the main sources of tension.
Learners should aim to anticipate and develop psychological and technical strategies to avoid tension.
Encourage learners to:
- counteract tension in the body through exercises for breathing and relaxation within the music, e.g. as in an upbeat
Brahms Cello Sonata in E minor, 2nd movement, Trio
- release tension in one part of the body by focusing attention on another, e.g. from one hand to the other
Continue to encourage positive body language when performing.
Encourage learners to attend a wide range of live performances where possible, and/or watch live performances online.
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.
Help learners to use their posture to communicate musical intention, e.g. beginning and/or
changing tempo in an ensemble.
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
Continue exploring the current Programme of Study
