Alexander Technique and Flute Music

• Who Studies the Alexander Technique?  Anyone who wishes to improve their coordination  and poise can benefit from the Technique. The Technique is helpful to individuals who suffer with discomfort or pain due to stress as well as conditions such as repetitive motion injuries, postural problems, movement difficulties, and old injuries. Many musicians, actors, dancers, and athletes also find that the Technique helps to improve their performance.
• How does the Alexander Technique Work?  The Technique works through awareness and observation. An Alexander Technique teacher assists through helping a student to see how their inefficient movement and postural habits can be changed and then guides them through the changes. The Technique is non-invasive and uses awareness and thought to encourage muscular changes.
• What Can a New Student Expect in an Alexander Technique Lesson?  An Alexander Technique teacher will work with a student in two ways, sitting in a chair and lying either on a table or the floor. The active segment of the lesson involves sitting, standing, and walking to observe movement habits throughout daily activities. The teacher will then assist the student with making changes to habits. Working with the student while in rest position is useful in encouraging the muscles of the limbs and torso to become peaceful and to encourage freeing of the muscles while the teacher gently moves the arms and legs. The lesson will last approximately 45 minutes. The student should wear comfortable and modest clothes that are unrestrictive to these activities.
• Other Benefits of the Alexander Technique:  The Alexander Technique is not a therapy nor a cure but can be helpful in assisting with the work of other professionals such as chiropractors, massage therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. The Technique is a thought process that not only eases symptoms of stress but can also lead to a more calm and clear mind that is not distracted by pain.

Joy Huebscher is certified by the American Society for the Alexander Technique (AmSAT), which establishes and maintains the nation's highest standard for teacher training and certification. Joy completed her three-year AmSAT required 1,600 hours of training at both Urbana, Illinois, and New York City. She has also done post-graduate training in Cincinnati, Ohio, continually staying current in the field.

With over two decades of professional background in both flute performance and teaching, Joy is well acquainted with the needs of musicians, performers, and athletes suffering from chronic pain and injury. She has a DMA from the University of Illinois, was on the flute faculty of the University of Tennessee, and taught at Skidmore Flute Festival, Illinois Summer Youth Music Camp, and Cadek Conservatory of Music. Joy has also held Alexander Technique workshops at the University of Akron (OH), Miami University (OH), Youngstown State University (OH), and Cadek Conservatory of Music (TN).

Joy is presently opening a private Alexander Technique in Chattanooga, Tennessee