Violinist
in Balance at Oundle School
Can you support your
instrument without compromising freedom of movement? Ill-fitting equipment
endangers comfort and playing technique and cramps neck and shoulders.
This presentation describes a three-year pilot study by Crissman Taylor (Violinist in Balance, Alexander
Technique, Utrecht Conservatoire) and Angus Gibbon (Head of Strings, Oundle
School), whose combined teams fitted Oundle School students and teachers with
customized chin and collarbone rests. Combined with private Alexander Technique
lessons to enhance awareness of balance and poise, the result was a better
playing position for bowing and fingering, and healthy alignment of spinal
column and limbs. Mr. Gibbon describes the resulting greater physical freedom and
creativity in playing and release from discomfort and awkwardness. An Oundle
School team supervised by Violinist in
Balance continues this work using adjustable chin and collarbone rests
currently under development.
You can take a closer look at our equipment and experience the ergonomic principles first hand at our follow-up workshop.