| Frederick Matthias Alexander (1869 - 1955)
was a successful actor and reciter in Australia
in the late 1880's, who developed vocal difficulties
at the peak of his performing career. In
attempting to correct this problem, he discovered
that he was misusing himself in such a way
that he interfered with his body's natural
functioning. He noticed a subtle change in
his posture that occurred when he began to
recite, and that the relationship of the
head, neck, and back directly affected his
vocal abilities. After a period of patient
observation, he identified and put into practice
certain basic principles of coordination.
Gradually his voice problem disappeared and
his general health improved. Not only could
he stand and speak without straining or tension,
but there was also a new ease and fullness
to his breathing. As fellow actors and audiences
noticed his improved performances, they began
to come to him for lessons. Alexander spent
the rest of his life in England and America
perfecting his Technique and training others
to teach. Today there are Alexander teachers
in practice throughout the world. |
