As musicians, when we think about playing our instruments, mastering technique and practicing intricate passages often come to mind. But how often do we stop to think about posture? Posture is a fundamental element that is not something to be overlooked. No matter what instrument you play, it is essential to develop healthy posture habits early on to enhance your performance in the long run.
Good Posture and Playing Efficiency
Posture affects many aspects of playing. For one, breath control depends on an open chest and a straight spine, allowing for optimal lung capacity. Finger speed also improves when your limbs are relaxed and properly supported.
On a side note, I remember attending a clinic for region band where we played for over four hours. What kept me awake and energized was good posture. It is quite grueling playing for over four hours at a time, but with good posture your body is not wasting energy compensating for imbalance.
Good posture does not mean being rigid or stiff. In fact, it is the complete opposite. It means being aligned, balanced, free to move, and most importantly, relaxed.
A Middle School Memory: Discovering Proper Posture
One moment from middle school stands out to me when thinking about posture. Our band director had the entire class lie with our backs to the floor. On the floor, we could feel how naturally straight our bodies were. Then, we were told to slide a hand under our lower back to feel the natural arch.
That natural arch is part of good posture because it allows room for movement and support. However, this method was posture in a horizontal position, so we had to translate that same feeling into sitting upright. For instance, good vertical posture includes keeping your head over your shoulders.
I encourage you to try this musician posture exercise.
Stage Presence and Audience Perception
Lastly, one more thing I want to mention is that posture plays a big role on stage. If the audience sees you hunched over or slouched during a performance, it can give them the impression that you are not fully engaged.
On the other hand, good posture not only improves your playing, but also increases your stage presence!
I hope you keep all of this advice in mind as you prepare, practice, and perform, because it might just make more of a difference than you expect.
