The Feldenkrais Method

The following are excerpts describing the Feldenkrais Method by my former Master Student Alex Chambers- Ozasky for his Doctoral dissertation from the University of Toronto. The full text of the dissertation is available here.

The Feldenkrais Method (FM), a somatic therapy founded by the Israeli physicist, engineer, and martial artist Moshe Feldenkrais, has steadily gained traction since its development in the mid twentieth century. Utilized by dancers, athletes, actors, and musicians alike, the FM aims to facilitate self-expression through increased freedom of movement and mind. The method posits that if we can learn to recognize our habitual patterns, we can start to untangle them, allowing for greater possibilities in our careers and daily lives.

The Feldenkrais Method is delivered to students in two ways: through group classes called ATMs (“Awareness Through Movement”) and individual lessons known as FIs (“Functional Integration”). This thesis draws on existing research, scientific studies, books, masterclasses, interviews, lessons, and first-hand experiential knowledge, all of which are applied to pedagogical situations and the canon of essential cello techniques. The thesis serves as a practical guide for cellists, and music teachers at large, who wish to integrate the FM into their pedagogical and performance activities.

An overview of the Feldenkrais Method:

Click here to view an article by Ralph Strauch describing the Feldenkrais Method.