Posture Makes Perfect Musical Sense

I originally wrote this article at the request of a music teacher – a pianist I know well – Piano with Sam.

When it comes to posture, your body keeps the score.  I’m David, a remedial massage therapist and I practice in Modbury in teh North East of Adelaide.  I’m also a musician – I’ve played the trombone since 1992, have performed in choirs and right now am dabbling with the ukelele.

Have you heard your teacher talk to you about posture? There’s a few good reasons.

• Good posture reduces stress and pain in your body;
• Good posture improves efficiency; and
• Posture reflects your confidence.

This is true for all musicians.  I noticed that as my frame grew that my posture changed too and with size and maturity came a change in my musical capabilities.  As my shoulders broadened and opened and my spine straightened (from a hunched position), not only did I look confident as a performer, but I felt confident too and this changed my whole expression of music.

Posture is vital to great efficiency.  Our spine – the hub of the central nervous system – the commander of all function and action – loves to be in a neutral position.  With good posture our limbs move with efficiency, our airways function optimally and our brain(the mastermind and creative hub) is clear.  This includes drawing deep breath – vital if you play a wind instrument or combine vocals with your performance.

I reflect back on the Peanuts cartoon Schroeder hunched over his piano and I can’t help but think about how his poor nervous system is under so much pressure.  What will his back look like when he’s in his 20s?  Will he end up looking like the infamous David Helfgott – with a distinct hunch?

Think of the potential that you can reach if your spine is where it loves to be – serving you to the best of its ability and fuelling your creative drive.

If you are struggling with neck, back or shoulder pain, I’d love to help you.  Give me a call.

David Clayton is the principal therapist at Myomasters and he has an interest in supporting people to recover from stress, anxiety and trauma using compassionate and nurturing touch.