Bringing new meaning to ‘just breathing naturally’

Many of us develop emotional or cultural holding patterns that prevent us from breathing freely and fully. In this short course you will learn a series of simple breathing exercises which you can apply directly to your bow arm. You will explore tension and release, receiving and letting go, holding, emptiness, and resistance. These are meditative classes that will support you on every level – physical, mental, and of course musical.

Another word on slow breathing.
It goes by another name: ‘prayer’
James Nestor, Breath

Other benefits of healthy breathing while we play include the increasing blood flow to the brain, creating calm, presence, feeling grounded, and co-ordination to peak efficiency of the heart function, circulation and the nervous system. What’s not to like?

Connecting the breath with the bow, translating everyday movements into cello playing, rediscovering phrasing as a combination of tension and release, and the process of how to practice. I cannot recommend Ruth highly enough. Cellists of any age and ability would, I am positive, have a huge amount to learn and enjoy.”
Rebecca, cellist, Philharmonia Orchestra, UK

Practical Details

Who is it for: All string players
Tutor: Ruth Phillips of The Breathing Bow
Number of participants: up to 10
Length of session: 45 minutes
Number of sessions: 3
Dates and times: 11am-11.45am on Thursdays | 3, 10, 17 December 2020
Cost: £47.50 for 3 session the course

These classes will be available as recordings if you cannot make the time.

What you need to bring:
Please wear loose clothing and if you have a yoga mat this may be helpful.

List of all sessions in this course