May 9 to 13, 2022 — 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Mon.-Fri.)
$75 with the support of Emploi-Québec (or $210, non-eligible rate)
Open to artists of all disciplines
Language of instruction: English
Questions can also be asked in: Dutch
Capacity: 20 people — priority for full week attendance
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CONTENT // This workshop is for artists of all kinds and abilities who are curious to explore what the 125 year old Alexander Technique (AT) can offer us in today’s world. Each day of the workshop we will explore the principles of AT and apply them to simple, daily movements. The first part of the day is theory (with lots of recent insights from science) and discussion. We will then explore a daily movement such as sitting down and standing up, walking, running, or lifting, while applying the AT principles. Central to AT is the idea of lightness and non-judgement so all are welcome. A very important part of AT is the hands-on guidance of the teacher, which is very highly recommended as the most efficient means of conveying the AT. There might also be some partnering with touch. A yoga mat will be needed on at least one day.
ACCESSIBILITY // All movement experiments are voluntary; you may simply observe if desired. If you are uncomfortable with touch, it is not required. Tom also has experience working with deaf artists through an ASL interpreter.
BIO // Tom Koch has been a pioneer in bringing the Alexander Technique into the professional dance world. Since being certified to teach in 1987 by the American Center for the Alexander Technique in New York, he has taught group and private lessons in the Technique to members of Ballet Frankfurt, Nederlands Dans Theater, the Dutch National Ballet, Charleroi Danses, anoukvandijk dc, Tanztheater Wuppertal and many others. He also has specialised in applying the Technique to a wide range of physical problems, such as MS, recovery from injuries or surgeries, chronic back, neck, and joint pain, and scoliosis. Among his students are some of the foremost performers and creators of European dance, theater and music, as well as office workers, police agents, professors, editors, and even rock climbers.