The Alexander Technique is a simple and practical method for improving ease and freedom of movement, balance, support, flexibility, and coordination. It enhances performance and is therefore a valued tool for actors, dancers, and musicians. Practice of the technique refines and heightens kinesthetic sensitivity, offering the performer a control which is fluid and lively rather than rigid. It provides a means whereby the use of a part (e.g. voice or bow-arm) is improved by improving the use of the whole body.

WILLIAM CONABLE is a long-time student and teacher of the Alexander Technique. His principal teachers were Marjorie Barstow, the first teacher certified in the technique, with whom he began studying in 1962, and Frank Pierce Jones, the author of the major scientific studies of Alexander’s work. For 35 years he offered regular classes in the Technique at  the Ohio State University, where he is Emeritus Professor of Music. During his time at OSU he was Professor of Cello, and was for ten years Principal Cellist of the Columbus Symphony. He has been a member of the Hughes Quartet, the Sartory Trio, and the Cipriani Trio and is co-director of the Inland Northwest Chamber Music Collective. He is also an Advanced Practitioner of Nervous System Energy work.

Dr. Conable has given classes and workshops at universities and professional organizations all over the US and has taught extensively in Taiwan and Japan as well as in Hungary, Switzerland, Chile, and Brazil. He is on the faculty of CBAS, an Alexander teacher training school in North Carolina.

He formulated and developed the concept of body-mapping and is co-author with Barbara Conable of How to Learn the Alexander Technique. He is a teaching member of the American Society for the Alexander Technique and of Alexander Technique International, for which he delivered the 2011 Keynote Address.

Professor Conable is offering classes in the Alexander Technique for members of the HNMC community. This winter’s classes run for 10 weeks beginning January 30, 2012. There is a class for beginners at 8:30 pm and one for those who have had two introductory classes or an extended workshop at 7:30 pm. $150 for the 10 week session. HNMC students get 15% off. Pre-registration is encouraged. Call 509-326-9516 to register or download the form by going to registration then registration form. To speak with Professor Conable himself call 509-270-7492.

***The advanced Alex. Tech. class is extended through April 30th, 2012. $60 for this last month. HNMC students get 15% off.