As a dedicated violinist and teacher, my journey with music has always been a blend of passion and discipline. Over the years, my pursuit of my musicianship has led to some bouts of discomfort and pain. By the time I was 27, I had been to physical therapy three different times for partial numbness in my left arm! I knew this was not the way to live with a career, but I did not know how to fix it. Twenty years after I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Music, I went back to school for my Master’s degree in violin performance. During that time, I was introduced to Body Mapping as both a way to not have general pain associated with the violin and to strengthen my sound. I was instantly hooked on the idea.
As I have worked from affiliate to trainee, I feel as though I have embarked on a transformative path.
I delved head first into Body Mapping, a practice that not only has restored my joy in playing and performing, but also revolutionized how I approach teaching.
Discovering Body Mapping
Body Mapping is not just about understanding anatomy as it pertains to musicians, it is also about developing awareness of how our bodies move and respond to musical demands. Initially intrigued by its potential to alleviate physical strain and enhance efficiency, Body Mapping has so far allowed me to play with greater ease and fluidity. My violin has become physically easier to play and I am so excited about it!
Benefits to my violin playing
The impact on my violin playing was almost immediate and very profound.
Increased Awareness: Body mapping deepened my awareness of my body's movements and alignment while playing. I learned to recognize tension points and adjust my posture and technique accordingly, leading to greater comfort and fluidity in my playing.
Improved Technique: By understanding the anatomical principles underlying violin technique, I refined my approach to bowing, fingering, and overall coordination. This resulted in more precise articulation and enhanced musical expression. In addition, my sound projects a lot further.
Injury Prevention: One of the most significant benefits was the prevention of injuries. With a heightened awareness of ergonomic principles, I could practice and perform for longer periods without experiencing discomfort or strain, even in more cramped locations.
Incorporating Body Mapping into teaching
Inspired by my personal transformation (which is still happening), I have been integrating Body Mapping into my violin teaching, both in my private studio and at the university where I teach. My goals are to incorporate both the technical skills of their instruments and to get the students to play with their own proper body maps, empowering them with the knowledge to play comfortably and sustainably for years to come.
Awareness Exercises: I started incorporating simple awareness exercises into warm-ups, such as nothing our feet while playing or putting their instruments up in playing position from a different angle, to encourage students to notice tension and release it consciously.
Visual Mapping: Using visual aids and diagrams, such as the ones in my body mapping books or on the website, and even free Google images. With my older students, we discuss how the body can move in coordination with the instrument and musical phrases.
Impact on students
So far the results have been remarkable.
My students have not only improved technically, but a few of them have mentioned fewer instances of fatigue.
I am really excited to see them progress as I get further into my training.
Closing thoughts
Studying Body Mapping has been a transformative journey that continues to shape my musical identity and teaching philosophy. It has not only enhanced my technical proficiency but has also imbued my practice and teaching with mindfulness, creativity, and a profound respect for the body's capabilities.
If you're a musician or educator looking to elevate your playing or teaching experience, consider exploring Body Mapping. Embrace it as a tool for deeper self-awareness, improved technique, and sustainable musical growth. Incorporate its principles with dedication and curiosity, and you may find yourself on a journey of discovery and fulfillment in your musical endeavors.
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