Sharon High School Alexander Technique Workshops

On September 9 and 11, Clara Sandler, an Alexander Technique teacher and a member of the voice faculty at the New England Prep/SCE, came to Sharon High School to offer workshops for our choirs. Alexander Technique is the process of changing habits in our movements that we unconsciously do every day. It helps an individual discover and practice balance in the body by releasing unnecessary tension.

Ms. Sandler talked about her experience with the Alexander Technique, saying, “The Alexander Technique was life-changing for me. First of all, I was able to get rid of my headaches and tingling fingers. This was major! My singing became freer and easier; I was able to enjoy performing again! This was major also. On a different level, I learned how to deal with performance anxiety, became more centered, present and more open to the world. It has helped me immensely in dealing with difficult situations and people as the technique helps calm the nervous system”.

The workshop consisted of students getting up and practicing small exercises to release tension. Students were told to walk around the auditorium and focus on their sixth-sense, to be aware of what is going on around their surroundings. Barry Spoto ’22 wrote, “I enjoyed the workshop and it has greatly improved my vocal technique over the last few weeks. I think it has also helped our entire chorus work more in unison and has provided a much clearer and more natural sound”.

During the workshop, many students became aware of bad habits and learned about how their habits could become an obstacle while singing. Jasmine Villaroel ’21 wrote, “I have learned that I, as a singer, carry a lot of tension in my shoulders and neck that result in strain on my voice. I discovered that the body’s alignment starts from the feet and travels all the way to the top of the head, which can add immense strain on the neck and back when not properly aligned.”

For those interested in possibly incorporating the Alexander Technique in their daily lives, Ms. Sandler advises, “The Alexander Technique teaches us how to be aware, to notice what our mind-body habits are, and offers tools for changing patterns that may be causing tension and pain and which can become chronic pain. It is a wonderful technique that helps regain the mind-body ease and freedom we had as little kids. It helps with alignment, coordination, breathing, and helps us free ourselves from unnecessary tensions. I’d recommend attending the Alexander Technique classes or taking lessons with a certified teacher”.

These workshops were sponsored by a Sharon Education Foundation (SEF) grant.

Written by Manjari Kannan, Communications Director of Tri-M Music Honor Society Chapter No. 3732 at Sharon High School.