I gradually became aware of how I had been causing myself problems

Máirtín O'Connor
Máirtín O'Connor
Leading Traditional Irish accordion player
After an Alexander Technique lesson, it felt like someone had poured a full canister of oil into my neck. Twenty years of neck tension faded away and I felt my chest naturally expand. I used to wrap myself around my instrument for years. When your head is inside the music it's like an anaesthetic and you don't feel the discomfort, but I gradually became aware of how I had been causing myself problems. I have a greater sense of control when I'm playing and it feels easier, particularly when I'm playing something technically difficult.