Feldenkrais for Musicians: “You Will Learn the Difference Between Your Sacrum and Your Scapula!”

Do you remember those difficult months in 2020 and 2021, when lockdowns and restrictions meant musicians were unable to ply their trade in the ways they had previously taken for granted? Neither do I!

As Coronavirus raged I was fortunate enough to spend almost a year at a remote location in the West of Ireland, enjoying the twin consolations of Nature and a decent broadband connection. There was also a violin in the house somewhere.

That period now feels like ancient history, but at the time the MU realised something had to be done to help the beleaguered membership, who had been left economically stranded and demoralised. The first thing to do was offer to suspend subscriptions, and the second was to support mental health and wellbeing.

I must have stumbled upon Emma's Feldenkrais classes in an MU email, and was soon logging on regularly to the Friday morning sessions on Zoom. Five years on, like many from the original cohort, when I can, I'm still there on Fridays. 

It is easier to describe what Feldenkrais isn’t, rather than what it is

Throughout my career as a musician I have always been aware of the importance of nurturing the mind/body connection. Playing the violin, or playing almost any other musical instrument for that matter, ain’t easy.

As many of us string players know to our cost, the physical asymmetry of the playing position provides reliable income streams for chiropractors, physiotherapists and shiatsu practitioners the world over. But fear not, you may be able to smooth out a few bumps and save yourselves a few quid with assistance from Emma and her Feldenkrais class.

In many ways it is easier to describe what Feldenkrais isn’t, rather than what it is. It is not Yoga or Pilates, or anything remotely like it. No lycra or level of fitness is required, and comfortable everyday clothing is suitable. All shapes and sizes are welcome. Repeated movements are not extreme and performed gently.

You will not be asked to hold any postures. Your movements will flow back and forth in an enjoyable way, normally horizontal, but not always. You will only work within your zone of comfort. Stretching beyond your limits is a definite no-no.

The aim is not the body beautiful, but rather, the body efficient - your own body efficient. Emma’s mantra is that, for the brain to learn new, improved habits, movements should be pleasurable and smooth.

Gain a greater awareness of the connection between you and your instrument

To discover what Feldenkrais actually is, my advice would be to give it a go. Feldenkrais needs to be experienced, not explained. It may take a few sessions but give it time. You will gain greater awareness of yourself and the mysterious connection between you and the object in or under your hands (with apologies to singers who also benefit from Feldenkrais.)

Some sessions may feel more relevant than others - we all have different anatomical quirks to work around. Emma focuses on specific areas of the body each week, and how these connect with the whole.

All lessons are recorded and accessible on Emma’s website at a time more convenient to you if you can’t make the live Friday time.

Underpinned by science

Feldenkrais is underpinned by some solid science; anatomy and biomechanics with some neuroscience thrown in. You will learn the difference between your sacrum and your scapula, if you don’t already, and where to find them. Emma’s resident synthetic skeleton makes occasional appearances centre-stage to help out.

Emma herself is super-bright, articulate, engaging and really knows her stuff. She is passionate about the benefits of Feldenkrais. Her directions and explanations during the classes are very clear. Emma invites feedback and thoughts at the beginning and end of the hour, and questions are welcome at any time during the lessons.

Give it a go. I did, and you can too, for free thanks to your MU subscription. Money well spent!