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Elements of Alexander Technique: Discovering a Natural Approach to String Playing
(2016)
  • Tomas Cotik, Portland State University
Video
Description
Presentation at the ASTA National Conference in Tampa on March 5th, 2016 by Dr. Tomas Cotik

This video covers a wide array of techniques and simple ways in which performers of all levels can achieve a more natural approach to instrumental playing by improving ease and freedom of movement. Practicing these exercises will refine and heighten kinesthetic sensitivity offering the performer a control which is fluid and lively, enhancing performance and helping avoid unnecessary tension, pain, and potential injuries. Identifying the subconscious habits that interfere with the operation of our innate coordination is the first step and more than half of the work in cracking them. 

A full article on this topic will be soon available at www.tomascotik.com


Dr. Tomas Cotik currently teaches at University of Miami’s Frost School of Music and Florida International University. He regularly gives master classes and lectures throughout the country. 

Hailed by Michael Tilson Thomas as "an excellent violinist," Tomas Cotik was a first-prize winner at the National Broadcast Music Competition in his native Argentina in 1997, and the winner of the Government of Canada Award for 2003-2005. An avid recording artist, Dr. Cotik is currently involved in more than a dozen CD, which include Schubert’s complete works for violin and piano, Mozart’s 16 sonatas. A former rotating concertmaster of the New World Symphony, Cotik has worked closely with members of the Cleveland, Miami, Pro Arte, Vogler, Vermeer, Tokyo and Endellion String Quartets. Dr. Cotik is a currently a member of the acclaimed Amernet String Quartet and the Cotik/Lin duo.

Credits:
Photography: So-Ming Kang
Student, model, and assistant: Patricia Jancova

Disciplines
Publication Date
March, 2016
Citation Information
Tomas Cotik. "Elements of Alexander Technique: Discovering a Natural Approach to String Playing" (2016)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/tomas-cotik/11/