62-310 Alexander Technique for Presenting/Speaking, Performance and other activities
9 units, Carnegie Mellon University
Alexander Technique was developed by FM Alexander, a Shakespearean actor, to address his ongoing vocal hoarseness. He investigated how the manner in we think affects how we speak, move and perform activities in our lives. He looked for ways to apply the principles of the Alexander Technique to develop more ease in daily activities and more freedom of expression in artistic activities. He termed this approach psychophysical reeducation. The Alexander Technique provides individuals with tools, including gentle hands on guidance by the teacher, to address specific habits of tension that may be impeding effectiveness. The technique is particularly valuable for performers such as actors, singers and musicians as well as visual artists. The course is also useful for those in business, medicine, law or any field where she or he has to present ideas to groups. This course will introduce basic principles of the Alexander Technique and guide students in approaches to apply these principles to fine arts such as acting, playing a musical instrument, drawing, dancing as well as day to day activities such as working at a desk with a computer, public speaking, working out, etc. Participants should wear loose fitting clothing for each movement such as sweat pants and tee shirts, no jeans, ties or belts please. This is an upper level undergraduate course.
Prerequisites: none listed
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