Breath Awareness

and coordination

Becoming aware of breathing enables better breath management. This works for musicians of every kind.

Step 1: Coordinate breathing with intentional movement.

Moving down on the inhale supports the shape change that takes place in the space within the abdomen, between diaphragm and pelvic floor. Moving up supports the recoil of the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles, integral in exhalation. Bonus: Moving against the wall helps you be aware of and maintain the stack. Movement at the hip joints offers support for all breathing movements and efficient coordination.

Step 2: Add Sound - wind, brass, singers, upper strings

Next, bring your instrument into the mix. Use the same movement as in step 1, but make a sound as you slide up the wall. Applying this to repertoire will mean you experience pauses that interrupt flow, but this is more about cultivating excellent breathing coordination and developing a new breath awareness.

This technique is terrific for exploring how you create sound, observing what you hear, along with the physical coordination of breathing. Begin by applying it in tone, technique, and then finally repertoire. The pauses that occur as a result of the movement will increase your awareness of what’s happening inside and musically. Remember that the ultimate goal is to become aware of the breath and integrate excellent breathing coordination in your playing.

Be curious!

Let me know what you uncover and any questions that come up!