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Expansive Whispered Ah

Wednesday WORKSHOPS 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Robert Britton
    Robert Britton (Bob) trained as an Alexander Technique teacher with Frank Ottiwell and Giora Pinkas, and graduated in 1978 . In addition to his private practice he taught the Alexander Technique to musicians at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music for 39 years. He has helped train Alexander Technique Teachers since 1988 in San Francisco, Berkeley, Berlin and Hamburg. He served as chairman of the American Society for the Alexander Technique from 1997 to 1999, and he was a faculty member of the Bay Area Summer Opera Training Institute (BASOTI) for many years. He has contributing to the well being of the international Alexander Technique Affiliated Societies, and the Annual Members Meeting of the Affiliated Societies.  He was a co-director of the International Congress of the Alexander Technique in Lugano Switzerland in 2011, serves on the ATCA Board, and is currently helping on the 2025 Congress which will be held in Berlin Germany this August. He was chairman of the “Complete Musicians Department” of the San Francisco Conservatory and in 2012 Bob was awarded the George S. Sarlo Award which is given for excellence in teaching in Northern California universities and colleges.
Summary
Robert Britton | In this fun workshop we will be exploring how the Whispered Ah is completely integrated with every other part body including our movement systems. So often vocal professionals do not realize how the quality of rest of the body affects vocal production. Alexander teachers are uniquely qualified to teach them how to adjust their entire body for peak vocal and emotional performance. In this workshop we will be tuning the entire body using the Whispered Ah, integrating our hands on touch with the voice, and realizing that the voice and breath are an essential part of wholeness.

Development and the Alexander Technique

Wednesday WORKSHOPS 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Elizabeth Johnson
    Elizabeth Johnson (MFA, M.AmSAT, RSME/T, RYT200) is a performer, choreographer, educator, Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analyst, certified Teacher of the Alexander Technique (AmSAT & ATI), and Registered Yoga Teacher (200hr). She teaches and presents nationally (US) and internationally on dance/movement pedagogies and somatics that center developmental movement, prosocial/trauma informed education, and critical/feminist perspectives. She has co-authored/authored three book chapters featuring applied Alexander Technique and developmental movement and is, with co-writers Rebecca Nettl-Fiol and Luc Vanier, anticipating the release of their book on an emergent movement analysis tool called Framework for Integration distilled from Alexander Technique, the Dart Procedures, and various somatic and developmental movement practices (University of Illinois Press). Johnson is an Associate Professor in the School of Theatre and Dance at the University of Florida.
  • Luc Vanier MFA, M.AmSAT
    Rebecca Nettl-Fiol, Professor of Dance at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, is a choreographer, educator, author, and Alexander technique teacher. She certified with Joan and Alex Murray in 1990, and continued working with them through 2018, when they moved back to London. Her research includes the integration of Alexander technique and Dart Procedures in dance training, resulting in a co-authored book, Dance and the Alexander Technique: Exploring the Missing Link. Other publications include The Body Eclectic: Evolving Practices in Dance Training, and a chapter in Martha Eddy’s book, Mindful Movement: The Somatic Arts and Conscious Action. She is a frequent presenter and guest teacher throughout the U.S. and abroad, and is the recipient of the University of Illinois Campus Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching. Her continuing work with Luc Vanier and Elizabeth Johnson includes the development of their comprehensive system, Framework for Integration, which offers a multi-layered model for understanding and redirecting movement habits and patterns, helping all movers make healthier movement decisions toward a more coordinated and integrated bodily use.
Summary
Elizabeth Johnson | Luc Vanier | The Alexander Technique provides an approach to desired change with the means-whereby providing an excellent fulcrum to help loosen some habits of thinking and moving that manifest during the early and overall development of the person. First presented by philosopher Ken Wilbur, Integral Theory provides another lens that can help us orient ourselves within various quadrants of change. This workshop will introduce the concepts of Integral Theory including the “four quadrants of development” (AQAL) as well as the “twenty tenets” of development. We will then link the tenets to our work as Alexander Technique teachers in areas of pedagogy and practice also referring to other educational and somatic frameworks (Laban, Bainbridge Cohen, Dart, Eddy, etc.).

Teaching from the Right Hemisphere

Wednesday WORKSHOPS 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Kathy Miranda
    Kathryn Miranda has been teaching the Alexander Technique for thirty+ years and has been involved in teacher training and teacher refreshers for most of those years. She is on the faculty of the Syracuse University’s Drama Department and Setnor School of Music. She has an ongoing interest in the evolutionary, physiological, and yet-to-be-understood underpinnings of the discoveries of F. M. Alexander. She has been fascinated by Iain McGilchrist's work on the differences between the two hemispheres of the brain. She organized a monthly book club of Alexander teachers and other somatic practitioners to read "The Matter with Things, Our Brains, Our Delusions and the Unmaking of the World." She attributes her openness and curiosity in lifelong learning to the influence of one of teachers, Judy Leibowitz. To honor Judy, she edited a variety of original transcripts and recordings into the book Dare To Be Wrong. (https://www.acatnyc.org/blog-posts/2014/10/02/dare-to-be-wrong-by-judith-leibowitz-now-available-on-kindle)
Summary
Kathy Miranda | According to Iain McGilchrist’s two seminal books “The Master and the Emissary” and “The Matter with Things” (see quote below) there are basic differences between the brain’s hemispheres that have major implications in how we attend to ourselves and how we attend to the world around us. To highlight a couple that are meaningful to the Alexander Community: • The left hemisphere is about creating a representation of reality and then predicting outcomes that match the previous experiences. It tends to stick to what it knows, seeing what it wants to see and missing the nuances and novelty of the moment. It can also be overconfident and doesn’t like to be wrong. • The right hemisphere is better at perceiving the reality of the moment and comprehending the gestalt, the wholeness of experience with flow and continuity. It can understand the connections and interrelationships without dividing into parts. McGilchrist theorizes that within the inherent asymmetry of the two hemispheres, the right hemisphere has a better handle on truth and reality and should be the Master and the left very capable of carrying out plans and getting basic needs met, should be the Emissary. I suggest that Alexander Technique at its best is essentially a path honoring the innate capabilities of the right hemisphere. I wonder if our emphasis on Use of Self and Primary Control puts the left hemisphere in the driver’s seat. If that’s the case, it could have the following limitations: • AT practice and teaching can be mechanical, prescriptive, and possibly manipulative, • The model of good use, not as holistic as we like to think, advantages some aspects of self over others (muscular skeletal system over more emotional systems of the parasympathic, fascial or digestive systems), • The wisdom of the right hemisphere is neglected, ignored or dismissed. As an individual who has been affected by left/right imbalances in both mind and body, I hope to offer ways that give the right hemisphere permission to come to the fore. I will share some of McGilchrist’s research and invite teachers to explore the implications of this asymmetry in thoughts, feelings and actions. “What I have shown in these chapters is that the left hemisphere is, compared with the right hemisphere, unreliable in just about every way that matters. In terms of attention to the world, and its role in thereby constructing and understanding experience; in its inability to comprehend time, space and motion; in its lack of skill in conveying and interpreting emotion; in its (lack of a) sense of the body as a living inseparable part of the self; in the comparative weakness of its faculties for direct perception, for the evaluation of beliefs and for making judgments; and indeed in terms of its lesser intelligence (which means understanding): in all of these it is more vulnerable to falsehood, more likely to deceive us, than the right.” The Matter with Things by Iain McGilchrist, p. 371'

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Wednesday Private Lessons 2pm - 2:30pm

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor
    Kim Jessor ( she/her) has been teaching the Alexander Technique since 1981. She trained at ACAT NYC where she was senior faculty and served for 3 years as Director of the Teacher Certification Program. Kim has a private practice in NYC and teaches Alexander in the Graduate Acting Program and undergraduate New Studio on Broadway at NYU Tisch School of the Arts. She and Carolyn Serota co-created the 2020 video REMEMBERING JUDY: A Centennial Celebration of the Life, Work and Legacy of Judith Leibowitz. She is a member of the Collaborating8, involved in ongoing learning and practice of this beautiful Technique.

Private Lesson | Nanette Walsh

Wednesday Private Lessons 2pm - 2:30pm

Speakers
  • Nanette Walsh

Small Group | Brian McCullough

Wednesday Small Groups 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Brian McCullough

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Wednesday Private Lessons 2:30pm - 3pm

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

Private Lesson | Nanette Walsh

Wednesday Private Lessons 2:30pm - 3pm

Speakers
  • Nanette Walsh

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Wednesday Private Lessons 3pm- 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

Private Lesson | Nanette Walsh

Wednesday Private Lessons 3pm- 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Nanette Walsh

Alexander Technique as a foundation for teaching movement/theater in a university setting.

Wednesday WORKSHOPS 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Jacque Bell
    Jacque Lynn Bell is a dancer, choreographer, and an AmSAT certified instructor of the Alexander Technique. She began teaching the Alexander Technique after graduation from New York City’s American Center for the Alexander Technique in 1993. Ms. Bell has taught at the SoHo Center for the Alexander Technique in New York City where she lived, choreographed, and performed from 1982-1998 intermittently. She has developed the Alexander Technique program, based on the Julliard model, for the Actor Training Program in the Department of Theatre at the University of Utah, where she also teaches Movement for Actors.
Summary
Jacque Bell | This will be an experiential workshop that will share information gathered over 30 years teaching for the Actor Training Program at the University of Utah. Movement exercises with specific attention to use as well as applying the AT directions to acting, using the Framework to increase awareness and expressive possibilities, will all be covered

Group Teaching: Building a Robust Lesson Plan

Wednesday WORKSHOPS 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Amanda MacDonald
    Amanda Blair MacDonald, M.AmSAT, MFA, R-MPA Amanda was already teaching dance and movement for actors in NYC when she entered her Alexander Technique teacher training with Beret Arcaya. Each day she trained in the morning and incorporated what she was learning into her teaching in the afternoons. For 6 years she taught concurrently at The American Academy for Dramatic Arts, The American Musical and Dramatic Academy, and The Ailey School, and, in the midst of that, graduated from the Dimon Institute in 2006.. During that time she also attended the Dance Education Laboratory at the 92nd Street Y where she was introduced to Laban and a variety of teaching methods. Upon moving to Chicago, Amanda began to build her private practice alongside her group teaching. She studied pedagogy with Anne Green Gilbert, Yoga with Mira Binzen, Movement Pattern Analysis with Ritu Chander, obtained her MFA from UW Milwaukee, and did continuing education in Alexander Technique with Joan and Alex Murray, Luc Vanier, Alice Olsher, and Mio Morales. Currently Amanda teaches at DePaul University, Roosevelt University, the University of Illinois-Chicago (UIC), and continues her private practice.
Summary
Amanda MacDonald | Do you want to begin teaching groups but don’t know where to start? Are you already teaching groups and looking for new ideas? Are you looking for ways to plan your material so that students engage and remember? During this workshop, Amanda will use a combination of experiential exercises, presentation, and discussion to share how she plans her 10-session group classes for the DePaul School of Music in Chicago.

An Elaboration of Direction: John Appleton and Posture Release Imagery

Wednesday WORKSHOPS 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Christopher Neville
    Christopher Neville certified 2020 under Luc Vanier and Cathy Pollock at SLCityAT. Previous to his life as an alexander teacher, Neville was a professional artist and entrepreneur. Additionally, he founded Two Flame Tango, a somatic tango school, where he integrates Alexander Technique principles into social tango dancing.
  • John Appleton
    John Appleton certified with Joan and Alex Murray in 1986 and has been working with the technique ever since. He has developed an extremely creative body of work as he continued to explore what he learned from FM and the Murrays.
Summary
Christopher Neville | John Appleton | Join us for an enlightening workshop as we delve into the innovative work of John Appleton and his discovery of Posture Release Imagery. In this session, we will introduce several of Appleton's images, with a particular focus on images that offer a profound elaboration of the Alexander Technique principle of direction. Appleton's approach provides a unique perspective on the question: ''What does it mean to let my back lengthen and widen?'' Through a series of images and exercises, participants will explore the maps of the body that Appleton has developed. These images serve as powerful tools to illuminate the structure of our bodies and guide the flow of energy in a manner that serves the goals of the Alexander Technique. During the workshop, participants will have the invaluable opportunity to interact directly with John Appleton himself. Appleton, a visionary thinker, will share his insights and experiences, offering deeper understanding and clarity on the discoveries underlying his groundbreaking work. His presence promises to enrich the exploration and ensure a comprehensive understanding of Posture Release Imagery. This workshop is ideal for Alexander Technique practitioners seeking to deepen their understanding of direction. Appleton's work represents a wide evolution in the field, into the largely uncharted territory of the right brain. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about this transformative approach to letting your back lengthen and widen.'

Private Lesson | Brian McCullough

Wednesday Private Lessons 4pm - 4:30pm

Speakers
  • Brian McCullough

Private Lesson | Frances Marsden

Wednesday Private Lessons 4pm - 4:30pm

Speakers
  • Frances Marsden

Small Group | Robert Britton

Wednesday SMALL GROUPS 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Robert Britton

Private Lesson | Brian McCullough

Wednesday Private Lessons 4:30pm - 5pm

Speakers
  • Brian McCullough

Private Lesson | Frances Marsden

Wednesday Private Lessons 4:30pm - 5pm

Speakers
  • Frances Marsden

Private Lesson | Brian McCullough

Wednesday Private Lessons 5pm - 5:30PM

Speakers
  • Brian McCullough

Private Lesson | Frances Marsden

Wednesday Private Lessons 5pm - 5:30PM

Speakers
  • Frances Marsden

Rise above it: your best integrated self

Thursday WORKSHOPS 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Lisa First
    Lisa First is an American Society of the Alexander Technique (AmSAT) certified instructor of the Alexander Technique. She currently lives in Raleigh, North Carolina where she teaches private and group lessons in the Alexander Technique. Lisa also teaches online, private and group sessions, as well as nationally and abroad. Lisa is a lifelong dance artist and works with people with and without disabilities. She was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1982 and has lived with MS for 43 years. She has an MA in Dance and Movement Studies from Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT and a BA in visual arts and dance Antioch College, Yellow Springs, Ohio.
Summary
Lisa First | This active workshop will explore ''rising above'' during those moments in life when we may pull down, shorten our growth, development and accomplishments. Pausing to select new orientations over habit and reactivity. ''Rising above'' when others may seek to bring you down, holding you back in your imagination or in reality! Accepting your pathway without caring what others think, say or do. Crafting strength and confidence in yourself, your skills and your ever changing levels of expertise. Identity and competence is everyone's birthright. Choosing clarity, decisiveness and empowerment without doubt or hesitation. This workshop will include group activities, partner and solo activities.

Alexander Technique & How to Help those with Scoliosis Awareness and Back Pain

Thursday WORKSHOPS 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Kecia Chin
    Kecia Chin is a qualified Alexander Technique Teacher with twenty-four years of experience. She obtained her certification 1999, ACAT (American Center for the Alexander Technique, NYC, USA). Kecia specializes in yoga postural-restoration, back-pain management, conservative spine care, and scoliosis management. Not only a certified Alexander Teacher, she's also a Yoga Teacher in various yoga disciplines. She combines her expertise with yoga and seamlessly integrates yoga wisdom into her Alexander Technique teachings. A mother of three children, all of whom have relatively mild scoliosis, she has become a passionate support for scoliosis education. An advocate for enhancing your basic scoliosis knowledge and body awareness principles such that you are better skilled in observing posture and better equipped to confidently deal with scoliosis community needs and challenges. She currently operates a private practice in Island Park, Long Island, and has been the local gym resident yoga teacher for a decade promoting better yoga asanas, restoring postural habits scoliosis or not, and pain prevention. She has taught workshops at Hospitals, Universities, Yoga studios & Gyms, co-conducted workshops in the ACGM International Teachers Convention (Slovenia 2023), The 12 Annual Congress (Berlin 2022), and assisted in ACGM Columbia University (NY USA 2019).
  • Richard Brennan
    Richard has studied the Alexander Technique since 1983 and has been teaching the technique full time for nearly 30 years he travels extensively in Europe and USA giving talks and courses on the Technique. Richard has been featured in numerous newspapers and magazines including The Irish Times, The Sunday Tribune, The Irish Examiner, Cosmopolitan, Hello and Home and Country; he has appeared on BBC I & RTE 1 and been featured on BBC Radios 4 & 5 as well as many local Radio around Ireland and the UK. He has written eight books on the Alexander Technique, posture and health which have been translated into seventeen different languages including French Italian, Spanish, Russian, Korean and Hebrew and are on sale world-wide He latest book How to Breathe was publication in September 2017 Richard lives in Galway, Ireland where he is the director of the Alexander Teacher Training College, Ireland (STAT approved). He is also the President of the Irish Society of Alexander Technique Teachers. (ISSAT)
Summary
Richard Brennan | Kecia Chin | In today's fast-paced world, where stress and tension often take a toll on our bodies, it's even more crucial to find effective ways to maintain healthful means and habits for those dealing with scoliosis or other uncommon spinal curves. The Alexander Technique offers valuable insights and practices to help those dealing with either uncommon curves of the spine or scoliosis to achieve just that. By enhancing your scoliosis knowledge and body awareness principles, you are better skilled in observing posture and better equipped to confidently deal with scoliosis community needs and challenges. The Alexander Technique empowers individuals to move with greater ease and efficiency in all aspects of life. In this workshop you will get a deeper understanding of scoliosis; the causes, the myths, and the effects on their daily life while doing everyday activities. You will learn simple ways of help them to deal with working, standing, sitting, and a wide range of necessary movements. Many people do not realize scoliosis is a condition effect 2-3% of the population, and the most common age of the onset is between 10-15 (school years). The principles of the Alexander Technique are a most important tool in helping children to adults with their physical discomforts and daily living activities. We are also happy to discuss any other questions that you may have about other back problems that affect 49% of the population in developed countries.'

What is the goal of an Alexander Technique lesson? Part 1

Thursday WORKSHOPS 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Elinore Morin
    Elinore Morin has been teaching the Alexander Technique for 38 years, having graduated from Patrick Macdonald’s School for the Alexander Technique in 1986. She is a certified member of both AmSAT and STAT. In addition to her private practice, she is a founding member of the Musician’s Wellness Program at Michigan State University’s College of Music and teaches the Alexander Technique at the College. A frequent guest teacher on several training courses, she also gives lecture-demonstrations in the US and internationally. A professional violist and accomplished singer, Elinore specializes in working with musicians in both student and professional settings. She is currently a faculty member on the Conductor’s Retreat at Medomak in Maine and has taught at the ASTA International Workshops and in Portland State University’s Haystack Program in the Arts.
  • Ruth Kilroy
    Ruth Kilroy has been teaching the Alexander Technique privately for 35 years and has run a comprehensive teacher-training program continuously since 1993. She graduated in 1984 from the Patrick MacDonald School for the Alexander Technique in London, England and is certified by STAT (England) and AmSAT (US). Ruth runs regular post-graduate workshops for Alexander Technique teachers and has been a visiting teacher in Australia, Canada, Germany and Israel.
Summary
Ruth Kilroy | Elinore Morin | Note: This is a two-part sequential workshop, and it is strongly recommended that you register for both parts. We will explore the idea that teachers should aim to leave their students with more than just temporary relief or experiential benefits; rather, students ought to come away from even a short experience of the AT with lasting and permanent knowledge. The goal of the AT lesson is not to create a dependent student who must return to the teacher, but rather someone who has, through the lessons, learned the means to help themselves.

Private Lesson | Pam Bartlett

Thursday Private Lessons 9:00 - 9:30

Speakers
  • Pamela Bartlett

Small Group | Alice Olsher

Thursday Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Alice Olsher M.AmSAT

Private Lesson | Pam Bartlett

Thursday Private Lessons 9:30 - 10:00

Speakers
  • Pamela Bartlett

Private Lesson | Pam Bartlett

Thursday Private Lessons 10:00 - 10:30

Speakers
  • Pamela Bartlett

Finding Accessible Language: Exploring the Words We Use and Embody

Thursday WORKSHOPS 11am - 12:30pm

Speakers
  • Chloe Nagle Cetinkaya
    Chloe Nagle Cetinkaya (she/her) became an AmSAT certified teacher of the Alexander Technique under the direction of Rose Bronec in 2021. She was first introduced to the Alexander Technique by professor, Luc Vanier, while studying dance as an undergraduate at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The Alexander Technique improved her coordination and balance, helping her to dance with personal expression and musicality as well as reduced performance anxiety. While training to become a teacher, she experienced mental health benefits from the Alexander Technique including stress relief, expanded self-awareness, and deeper presence. Having personally experienced the benefits of the Alexander Technique both on and off stage, Chloe is committed to teaching the Alexander Technique and advocating for its efficacy. She assisted Rebecca Nettl-Fiol’s Alexander Technique for Dancers course at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Department of Dance, assisted Brian McCullough’s Alexander Technique for Musicians course at the University of Minnesota School of Music, and taught Alexander Technique workshops at Zenon Dance School as well as the Ordway Center for Performing Arts. She is a choreographer and performer based in San Francisco, California. Her creative practice uses movement, writing, and spoken word to examine the subtleties of sensory experience and create imaginative performances.
Summary
Chloe Nagle Cetinkaya | The Alexander Technique has specific language for communicating direction. Part of the learning process for students and teachers is translating direction from simply being words and ideas, into inner movement, flow of energy, somatic experience, and embodied knowledge. Through guided activities, group discussion, and opportunities for putting into practice new ideas generated by the group, participants will explore embodied responses to language. Although touch facilitates the learning process, to refine understanding and application, perhaps there are other language possibilities, outside of our regular AT vocabulary, which can assist students as they communicate with themselves and access the embodied knowledge they gain. Through exploring our own embodied responses to language, we may discover new descriptive language that benefits us and may be beneficial for others.

Understanding the Alexander Technique through an exploration of the Dart Procedures

Thursday WORKSHOPS 11am - 12:30pm

Speakers
  • Frances Marsden
    Frances trained as an Alexander teacher at the Constructive Teaching Center in London with Walter and Dilys Carrington and has been teaching for forty-three years. She completed two years postgraduate work at the Urbana Center for the Alexander Technique, directed by Joan and Alex Murray. Prior to her Alexander training, Frances studied acting at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, Glasgow. She is a member of the faculty and Board of the Alexander Training Institute of Los Angeles. She has taught at University of Southern California and California State University at Los Angeles and currently teaches at Occidental College. She also teaches at the Shakespeare Summer Institute, the Claremont Clarinet Festival and Alexander Technique Workshops-International. She maintains a private practice in Pasadena, California. Frances gave the F M Alexander Memorial Address at the 2018 ACGM.
  • Julia Caulder
    Julia Caulder is an AmSAT certified teacher of the Alexander Technique, and a professional performer. She has been practicing professionally for over 24 years and has studied the technique for over 34. Currently, she is on the faculty of the Alexander Training Institute in Los Angeles and teaches privately in Park City, Utah Julia has taught at The Egyptian Theater in Park City, Mount St. Mary’s College, The Laura Henry Acting Studio in Los Angeles, Santa Monica College Extension and Cal Arts. Julia has worked on set with many actors including Kenneth Branagh and Winston Duke. She has done workshops at Google, The University of Southern California School of Music, Pepperdine School of Music, Santa Monica College Music Department and the Long Beach Police Department. Julia was a professional singer with the Los Angeles Opera and Opera Pacific. In addition to her Alexander Technique certification, she received her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles and a Master of Music Degree from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. She was also credentialed in The Art of Breathing with Jessica Wolf in New York City. She has worked extensively with Joan and Alex Murray.
Summary
Julia Caulder | Frances Marsden | This is an experiential hands-on workshop. We will explore the primary and secondary curves and spirals as well as patterning. We will include Joan Murray’s latest work. Awareness/observation, inhibition and direction will guide us.

What is the goal of an Alexander Technique lesson? Part 2

Thursday WORKSHOPS 11am - 12:30pm

Speakers
  • Elinore Morin
    Ruth Kilroy has been teaching the Alexander Technique privately for 40 years and has run a comprehensive teacher-training program continuously since 1993. She graduated in 1984 from the Patrick MacDonald School for the Alexander Technique in London, England and is certified by STAT (England) and AmSAT (US). Ruth runs regular post-graduate workshops for Alexander Technique teachers and has been a visiting teacher in Australia, Canada, Germany, Spain and Israel.
  • Ruth Kilroy
    Elinore Morin has been teaching the Alexander Technique for 38 years, having graduated from Patrick Macdonald’s School for the Alexander Technique in 1986. She is a certified member of both AmSAT and STAT. In addition to her private practice, she is a founding member of the Musician’s Wellness Program at Michigan State University’s College of Music and teaches the Alexander Technique at the College. A frequent guest teacher on several training courses, she also gives lecture-demonstrations in the US and internationally. A professional violist and accomplished singer, Elinore specializes in working with musicians in both student and professional settings. She is currently a faculty member on the Conductor’s Retreat at Medomak in Maine and has taught at the ASTA International Workshops and in Portland State University’s Haystack Program in the Arts.
Summary
Ruth Kilroy | Elinore Morin | Note: This is a two-part sequential workshop, and it is strongly recommended that you register for both parts. We will explore the idea that teachers should aim to leave their students with more than just temporary relief or experiential benefits; rather, students ought to come away from even a short experience of the AT with lasting and permanent knowledge. The goal of the AT lesson is not to create a dependent student who must return to the teacher, but rather someone who has, through the lessons, learned the means to help themselves.

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Thursday Private Lessons 11:00 - 11:30

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

Small Group | Karen Dewig

Thursday Small Groups 11am - 12:30pm

Speakers
  • Karen DeWig

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Thursday Private Lessons 11:00 - 11:30

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent
    Barbara has been teaching and training teachers for over 50 years. Certified at The American Center for The Alexander Technique under the Co- Directorship of July Leibowitz, Deborah Caplan, and Ilana Rubenfeld in 1971, she Directed the Teacher Certification Program for about 10 years and was a Senior Teacher on the faculty there until 2015. Introduced to the AT as a young singer, the Technique has been a life long journey of learning to meet interfering habits of ‘use’ with kindness and acceptance. Barbara now lives and teaches in Middlebury, Vermont.

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Thursday Private Lessons 11:30 - 12:00

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Thursday Private Lessons 11:30 - 12:00

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Thursday Private Lessons 12:00 - 12:30

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Thursday Private Lessons 12:00 - 12:30

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

An Experienced “Alexander”Approach to Back Pain

Thursday WORKSHOPS 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Judith Stern MA PT
    Judy is an experienced teacher of the Alexander Technique with additional expertise in physical therapy. She has a keen interest in mentoring AT teachers who work with students with pain issues and recovery from injuries and illness. She has had leadership roles in AmSAT, ACAT , and the International Congresses. Judy proudly trained at ACAT ( 1987) and studied with the Carringtons.
Summary
Judith Stern | This workshop is designed to share my rationale and my strategies for working with people with chronic and acute low back pain (LBP). I have 50 years of experience working with this medical issue and have found that the principles of the AT are a highly effective modality and yet under utilized as an approach to the problem. Join me to better understand what makes ”our Technique “ so practical and effective.

AT and physicality related to emotions

Thursday WORKSHOPS 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Jameson James
Summary
Jameson James | AT--Connections to Eastern Medicine In this workshop, we will connect the intellectual, physical, and emotional aspects of the AT in an Eastern medicine context.

Exchanging with Colleagues: Making it Safe and Super

Thursday WORKSHOPS 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Lyn Klein
    Lyn certified to teach the Alexander Technique with Frank Ottiwell and Giora Pinkas in 1977. She taught at Pomona College, USC, California State University at Los Angeles, and has given lecture demonstrations to various organizations. In 1986 several colleagues formed the Alexander Training Institute of Los Angeles. Teaching on the course since 1988, Lyn became the Director from 1977 to 2014. Since then she has focused on private practice and the Training course.  Lyn served on AmSAT's Board of Directors and Training Approval Committee. She has taught on courses for Alexander Technique International at Sweet Briar College and Malibu. Lyn continues as Senior Faculty for the ATI-LA training course.
  • Ruth Rootberg
    Ruth Rootberg trained with Missy Vineyard (2003). Already a professional singer, Linklater voice teacher, and Laban Movement Analyst, Ruth has enjoyed continuing to learn, taking many post-graduate courses. She has taught the Alexander Technique at colleges and senior centers in Western Massachusetts and also brought her work to teachers of English, performers, and scientists. She has presented at ACGMs and other conferences. Ruth is author of several articles published in AmSAT Journal and the Alexander Journal. Her books, Living the Alexander Technique (2015) and Living the Alexander Technique, Volume II: Aging with Poise (2018) have been received with acclaim. Ruth has been a steady volunteer for AmSAT, having served on the Board, chaired the PCC and co-chaired the Member Handbook Updating Committee. A trained professional copyeditor, she worked several years as proofreader, production manager, and Editor of AmSAT Journal, and has been a key member of the Membership Committee. When in Devon, England, Ruth guest teaches at Alexander Technique Training Southwest. When in Amherst, Massachusetts, Ruth continues her private practice. Ruth continues to explore the Alexander Technique through writing and is working on another set of interviews.
Summary
Ruth Rootberg | Lyn Klein | This workshop will guide participants into learning to make exchange with colleagues safe so that both parties can learn from each other. Setting boundaries is key. At the end of an agreed-upon exchange period, teachers in the pairs will gather to talk about some of the helpful learning moments that they experienced. The main topics we will cover are: What is the Purpose of Giving Feedback When Teachers Exchange Work? What is the Quality of Feedback? What if Boundaries/Agreements Are Broken During Exchange? Pairing up: Acknowledge Differences (training styles, experience, goals of teaching) Determine Your Time (How long before you switch, before feedback is given?) Set Up Your Feedback Rules & Boundaries in Advance of Putting Hands On Choose Roles (Who is giving feedback – the one putting hands on or the one receiving?) What type of feedback will be given? (Each person has a stake in this) Conclusion: Gathering of the Group to Discuss the Experience We will start with open discussion around the topics. Then Lyn and Ruth will model setting up and exchanging long enough for the participants to observe us giving and receiving feedback. There will be time for the participants to discuss what they observed. The remainder of the workshop will be dedicated to exchange. Depending on the duration of the workshop and the size of the group, we may have participants switch partners before wrapping up. (Lyn and Ruth will also offer support during some hours in the exchange room.)'

Small Group | Rebecca Nettl-Fiol

Thursday Small Groups 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Rebecca Nettl-Fiol

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Thursday Private Lessons 2:00 - 2:30

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Thursday Private Lessons 2:30 - 3:00

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Thursday Private Lessons 3:00 - 3:30

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Free up your Primary Control with Developmental Movement

Thursday WORKSHOPS 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Wes Howard
    Wes Howard has studied the Alexander Technique since 1988. Wes first started training with Bruce and Martha Fertman in 1989, but eventually certified in 1994 with Joan and Alex Murray. He has kept a lively teaching practice in three Central Illinois cities for the past 30 years and now travels the US and Europe to give workshops and Continuing Ed teacher trainings. He continually studied and learned from his primary montor Joan Murray for 27 years. He has a wide ranging understanding of the different lineages of the Technique; having also studied with Marj Barstow, Shoshanna Kaminitz and John Nichols.
Summary
Westley Howard | Can we bring more flow and power into our AT procedures and Application of our work? In this workshop we will explore more freedom of movement while directing our Head-Neck-Back relationship. Application of Developmental Movement and Dart is a wonderful way to free up our Use of the Primary Control in our everyday life and do so without becoming stiff or rigid. We will go over three basic developmental movements including Fetal, Extension and Spiral movements. We will learn detailed procedures to teach these movements to our students while standing, sitting (Chair Work) and lying down. Explore how to look upwards without stiffening our necks. Explore our Positions of Mechanical Advantage (primate style positions) so we are not rigid in our application of these procedures. We will take the Developmental Movement off the floor and into our AT procedures and everyday life. The goal is to make our Primary Control more fluid, free, easy and powerful.

Run for Your Life

Thursday WORKSHOPS 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Malcolm Balk
Summary
Malcolm Balk | Running is often recommended as a key component of any long-term fitness plan, helping to promote health and well-being. So maybe you tried it and found that what should be a natural, joyful experience was in actuality anything but that. Alexander to the rescue… with one caveat: the key to the technique having a maximum impact on your running is to understand a bit more about running itself; what constitutes good use when running. Like a lot of what comes up with the Alexander Technique it may not be obvious until you experience it. In this fun and practical workshop we will explore some of the elements that make up a good stride helping you get a clearer idea of what you really need to do to get from A to B. If running for you is more flounder than flow, this workshop may well prove transformational. Come prepared to move!

Private Lesson | Ruth Kilroy

Thursday Private Lessons 4:00 - 4:30

Speakers
  • Ruth Kilroy

Private Lesson | Mara Sokolsky

Thursday Private Lessons 4:00 - 4:30

Speakers
  • Mara Sokolsky

Small Group | Elinore Morin

Thursday Small Groups 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Elinore Morin

Private Lesson | Ruth Kilroy

Thursday Private Lessons 4:30 - 5:00

Speakers
  • Ruth Kilroy

Private Lesson | Mara Sokolsky

Thursday Private Lessons 4:30 - 5:00

Speakers
  • Mara Sokolsky

Private Lesson | Ruth Kilroy

Thursday Private Lessons 5:00 to 5:30

Speakers
  • Ruth Kilroy

Private Lesson | Mara Sokolsky

Thursday Private Lessons 5:00 to 5:30

Speakers
  • Mara Sokolsky

Thursday Opening Reception 5:30pm - 7pm

Thursday Opening Reception

The Spiral of Learning: Growth Through Themes and Variations Part 1

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Collaborating8
    Collaborating8: Melissa Brown, Joan Frost, Kim Jessor, Kathy Miranda, Judy Stern, Rebecca Tuffey, and Barbara Kent The Collaborating8 is a collective of AT teachers deeply rooted in our ACAT training and our years participating together as part of the ACAT faculty. We have been meeting monthly since the fall of 2022, with the intention of growing and learning together. We have shared our experiences and what is alive for us from our private practices, teaching in university and conservatory settings, leading retreats and workshops, mentoring, presenting previous workshops together, as well as exchanging in dyads and trios. Our creative group process has been rich and lively with an emphasis on honoring our differences and learning from them. What has emerged is a creative curiosity and some remarkable discoveries. We continue as a “work in progress" and are excited to share our process and what we have learned with the AT Community at this 2024 ACGM.
Summary
Melissa Brown | Joan Frost | Kim Jessor| Kathy Miranda | Judy Stern | Rebecca Tuffey | Barbara Kent Note: This is a two-part sequential workshop, and it is strongly recommended that you register for both parts. In this workshop we will apply the Alexander principles in a collaborative experiential format, designed to stimulate in you a deeper understanding of how and why you teach. We will provide multiple opportunities for participating teachers and trainees to experiment with us and with one another. We will take you on a journey of self-discovery emphasizing the skills of 1.effective communication 2. empathy and 3. the ability to think critically. We believe that these skills, applied to teaching and learning the Alexander Technique, will support your ability to adapt, innovate and grow as a human being, as a student and as a teacher. We will be working with two themes; Inhibition and Expanding Awareness. Each of us six teachers will take a turn at leading an exploration of one of these, so you will have exposure to a variety of takes through a variety of formats. There will be hands-on, working in pairs and small groups, and verbal sharing to help make fresh connections. Our aim is to create a structure where learning and play can take place between and from anyone in the room. Join us for this exploration as we share what we have learned from our collaboration. It will be illuminating, lively and fun. We will encourage your active participation and creativity as well as your questions, comments and suggestions for deeper learning together. Bring your heart as well as your head for this time together!

Crafting Your Customer-Student Journey: Transitioning Prospective Students into Returning Clients, Part 1

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Eleanor Taylor
    Eleanor Taylor is a Lecturer in Acting at the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale, where she teaches the Alexander Technique. She has taught Alexander Technique at the Manhattan School of Music and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and currently serves on the faculty at the Riverside Initiative for the Alexander Technique (RIAT), where she has developed the “Breathing & Voice” course for trainees in their teacher certification program. She is on the summer faculty of Respiro Opera’s young artist program. She maintains a private teaching studio in Manhattan, specializing in working with singers and actors to improve performance, prevent injury and reduce anxiety using the Alexander Technique. She is also a certified instructor in Jessica Wolf’s Art of Breathing, and holds B.M. and M.M. degrees in vocal performance from New England Conservatory and the University of Minnesota. Eleanor is currently Chair Elect of AmSAT. www.eleanortaylorAT.com
  • Lindsay Newitter
    Lindsay Newitter completed her training at ATNYC in 2007 with John Nicholls and Nanette Walsh. She has 17 years experience working with individuals, groups, and companies and now specializes in helping women convey confidence when they communicate. Her tips have been on Good Morning America, CBS Radio and featured in The New York Times and Vogue. Lindsay was the Promotions Media Director of AmSAT from 2011-2018 and has offered marketing workshops to members at previous ACGMs. After having built and run a successful practice in New York City, she now lives in Montreal and teaches in both cities in addition to running online courses and a membership community.
Summary
Lindsay Newitter |Eleanor Taylor |Note: This is a two-part sequential workshop, and it is strongly recommended that you register for both parts. Every prospective student has the potential to have a continuing and fulfilling journey with the Alexander Technique! Come explore ways to expand your communication skill set for supportive and successful interactions that encourage new clients to discover AT and return for more study. In this two-part workshop, Lindsay and Eleanor will focus on the “key moments” along the journey from initial exposure of considering an AT session through the first lesson meeting. What elements of these interactions can help retain students - and what makes them less likely to continue? Part 1: Illuminating your “conversation” (with the public or individuals) to invite them to begin the journey • Meet potential students where they are so that they can clearly see how AT can fulfill their needs. • Strategize how to design low commitment offers so that people are willing to give it a try if they are hesitant to simply book a lesson. • Consider what you are communicating in the lead up to meeting to help them know they are in the right place for their interests. Whether you are a trainee, recent grad or long-term teacher, you’ll leave the workshop with some inspiring ideas from our group/solo brainstorm to energize your efforts towards your personal goals.

Three Essential Coordinations for Optimal Posturality

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Ron Dennis
    Ron Dennis certified under Judith Leibowitz at ACAT in 1979 after studying for 5 years privately with Goddard Binkley. He served on the training faculty at ACAT from 1981 and taught in the Music Division at Juilliard from then until 1990, when he moved to Atlanta, where he still lives and teaches. His 1999 paper on balance in normal older women appeared in the Journal of Gerontology, and, as the first controlled study with "Alexander Technique" in the title to enter the Index Medicus, placed the Technique in the global world of scientific research. He has authored The Posturality of the Person: A Guide to Postural Education and Therapy, as well as Alexander Revisited: Contemplation & Criticism 1979-2014.
Summary
Ron Dennis | 1. Ballistic Walking and the Human Bicycle 2. Lumbar-Pelvic Rhythm and Swayback 3. A Tale of Two Abdomens and the Keystone of Postural Length. I learned nothing of these coordinations in any Alexander Technique setting, working them out on my own through study and experience, and yet they are crucial to issues that AT teachers actually and constantly address in their students. The workshop will present the concepts as concisely as possible in order to focus on experience, both in oneself and in working together.

The Bay Area Alexander Technique

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • George Lister
    George Lister received NASTAT (AmSAT), certification in July, 1994. He began teaching in San Francisco, and two years later in Palo Alto, California. Following certification, he continued to study with Troup Mathews, Frank Ottiwell, and, Walter Carrington. He was the founder and director of the Northern California Center for the Alexander Technique (NCCAT), and taught on this training from 2004 to 2015. He has been a visiting teacher at the Institute for Research, Development and Education, in New York (IRDEAT), the Alexander Training Institute, San Francisco, (ATI SF), and the Constructive Teaching Centre, London, (CTC). George is a cofounder, along with John Baron, of the Bay Area Alexander Technique, (BAAT), a community of more than 30 AmSAT members and certified teachers in the San Francisco Bay Area. BAAT has recently received recognition as a Regional Chapter of AmSAT. John and George gave presentations and workshops on the BAAT development in Minneapolis in 2017, and at the Chicago International Congress in 2018. George has frequently published articles in the AmSAT Journal about his long experience with the Technique. He maintains regular teaching practices in San Francisco, and Redwood City, California.
Summary
George Lister | he Bay Area Alexander Technique (BAAT), is a community of more than 30 AmSAT certified teachers in the San Francisco Bay Area. BAAT was founded in 2017 by George Lister and John Baron, as a way of bringing our lively community of Alexander teachers and trainees together for mutual benefit and support. BAAT’s success served as an inspiration for other communities including Albuquerque, Denver and Salt Lake City. BAAT’s immediate success was tempered with Covid’s arrival. However, within the past year and a half, the organization has been rejuvenated, and has recently received both AmSAT and BAAT approval to form an AmSAT Regional Chapter. The membership of our organization believes that we are stronger and more flexible working together as a community. Our purpose it to support each other and, beginning on a local level, help our profession develop and grow in the Bay Area and beyond.'

Private Lesson | Elinore Morin

Friday Private Lessons 9:00 - 9:30

Speakers
  • Elinore Morin

Private Lesson | Karen Dewig

Friday Private Lessons 9:00 - 9:30

Speakers
  • Karen DeWig

Small Group | Richard Brennan

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Richard Brennan

Private Lesson | Elinore Morin

Friday Private Lessons 9:30 - 10:00

Speakers
  • Elinore Morin

Private Lesson | Karen Dewig

Friday Private Lessons 9:30 - 10:00

Speakers
  • Karen DeWig

Private Lesson | Elinore Morin

Friday Private Lessons 10:00 - 10:30

Speakers
  • Elinore Morin

Private Lesson | Karen Dewig

Friday Private Lessons 10:00 - 10:30

Speakers
  • Karen DeWig

Crafting Your Customer-Student Journey: Transitioning Prospective Students into Returning Clients, Part 2

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 11am - 12:30pm

Speakers
  • Eleanor Taylor
    Eleanor Taylor is a Lecturer in Acting at the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale, where she teaches the Alexander Technique. She has taught Alexander Technique at the Manhattan School of Music and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and currently serves on the faculty at the Riverside Initiative for the Alexander Technique (RIAT), where she has developed the “Breathing & Voice” course for trainees in their teacher certification program. She is on the summer faculty of Respiro Opera’s young artist program. She maintains a private teaching studio in Manhattan, specializing in working with singers and actors to improve performance, prevent injury and reduce anxiety using the Alexander Technique. She is also a certified instructor in Jessica Wolf’s Art of Breathing, and holds B.M. and M.M. degrees in vocal performance from New England Conservatory and the University of Minnesota. Eleanor is currently Chair Elect of AmSAT. www.eleanortaylorAT.com
  • Lindsay Newitter
    Lindsay Newitter completed her training at ATNYC in 2007 with John Nicholls and Nanette Walsh. She has 17 years experience working with individuals, groups, and companies and now specializes in helping women convey confidence when they communicate. Her tips have been on Good Morning America, CBS Radio and featured in The New York Times and Vogue. Lindsay was the Promotions Media Director of AmSAT from 2011-2018 and has offered marketing workshops to members at previous ACGMs. After having built and run a successful practice in New York City, she now lives in Montreal and teaches in both cities in addition to running online courses and a membership community.
Summary
Lindsay Newitter |Eleanor Taylor |Note: This is a two-part sequential workshop, and it is strongly recommended that you register for both parts. Every prospective student has the potential to have a continuing and fulfilling journey with the Alexander Technique! Come explore ways to expand your communication skill set for supportive and successful interactions that encourage new clients to discover AT and return for more study. In this two-part workshop, Lindsay and Eleanor will focus on the “key moments” along the journey from initial exposure of considering an AT session through the first lesson meeting. What elements of these interactions can help retain students - and what makes them less likely to continue? Part 2: Key elements of the first lesson, as the next phase of their journey continues • Learn fun and innovative ways to get to know your students and their learning needs so that they feel seen, heard, and ready to try something new. • Recognize the signs that you are meeting your students where they are (or not). • Examine how you can be the most present and responsive teacher for them in the moment by expanding your conscious choices in the teacher/student dynamic • Explore ways to translate AT principles and activities into how this individual learns best so that they leave feeling confident and planning to return. Whether you are a trainee, recent grad or long-term teacher, you’ll leave the workshop with some inspiring ideas from our group/solo brainstorm to energize your efforts towards your personal goals.

Skills and Ideas for Group Teaching

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 11am - 12:30pm

Speakers
  • Mara Sokolsky
Summary
Mara Sokolsky | Having moved to a new city during the Pandemic where almost no one had heard of the Technique, I had to get creative in spreading the word. I started an ongoing class at the local senior center and gave various workshops at adult education centers nearby. This class will explore some of the principles, exercises and partner-based explorations that worked well in those groups.

The Spiral of Learning: Growth Through Themes and Variations Part 2

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 11am - 12:30pm

Speakers
  • Collaborating8
    Collaborating8: Melissa Brown, Joan Frost, Kim Jessor, Kathy Miranda, Judy Stern, Rebecca Tuffey, and Barbara Kent The Collaborating8 is a collective of AT teachers deeply rooted in our ACAT training and our years participating together as part of the ACAT faculty. We have been meeting monthly since the fall of 2022, with the intention of growing and learning together. We have shared our experiences and what is alive for us from our private practices, teaching in university and conservatory settings, leading retreats and workshops, mentoring, presenting previous workshops together, as well as exchanging in dyads and trios. Our creative group process has been rich and lively with an emphasis on honoring our differences and learning from them. What has emerged is a creative curiosity and some remarkable discoveries. We continue as a “work in progress" and are excited to share our process and what we have learned with the AT Community at this 2024 ACGM.
Summary
Melissa Brown | Joan Frost | Kim Jessor| Kathy Miranda | Judy Stern | Rebecca Tuffey | Barbara Kent | Note: This is a two-part sequential workshop, and it is strongly recommended that you register for both parts. In this workshop we will apply the Alexander principles in a collaborative experiential format, designed to stimulate in you a deeper understanding of how and why you teach. We will provide multiple opportunities for participating teachers and trainees to experiment with us and with one another. We will take you on a journey of self-discovery emphasizing the skills of 1.effective communication 2. empathy and 3. the ability to think critically. We believe that these skills, applied to teaching and learning the Alexander Technique, will support your ability to adapt, innovate and grow as a human being, as a student and as a teacher. We will be working with two themes; Inhibition and Expanding Awareness. Each of us six teachers will take a turn at leading an exploration of one of these, so you will have exposure to a variety of takes through a variety of formats. There will be hands-on, working in pairs and small groups, and verbal sharing to help make fresh connections. Our aim is to create a structure where learning and play can take place between and from anyone in the room. Join us for this exploration as we share what we have learned from our collaboration. It will be illuminating, lively and fun. We will encourage your active participation and creativity as well as your questions, comments and suggestions for deeper learning together. Bring your heart as well as your head for this time together!

The Legacy of Raymond Dart and the Murrays

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 11am - 12:30pm

Speakers
  • Erik Bendix
    Erik Bendix is an AmSAT-certified Teacher of the Alexander Technique. He trained in the 1990s with Frank Ottiwell, Joan and Alex Murray, and Walter Carrington. Erik assisted on Vivien and Neil Schapera’s Cincinnati training for five years, worked with musicians with Vivien Mackie, helped represent the Technique at the 2012-13 Embodied Mind conferences in Paris and Gargonza and taught Alexander Technique in Taiwan and at Pomona College. He is trained in both Dart Procedures© and Body-Mind CenteringSM, disciplines that explore how movement develops in infants. He trained in BMC® with Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen in the 1990s, created The Learning Curve workshops to explore scoliosis, and developed his own Ease on Skis ski teaching method based on the Technique which he has taught at many workshops. Trained as an philosopher at Oxford and Princeton, Erik is a published poet and is known worldwide as a folk dance teacher.
Summary
Erik Bendix | It has been a century since Raymond Dart discovered the ‘Missing Link’ fossil that proved we are descended from apes, and almost as long since he developed his Dart Procedures to rehabilitate his brain-damaged son. After decades of integrating his insights into the Alexander Technique, Dart’s students Joan and Alex Murray have moved back to London and no longer train teachers. How do we move forward with the gifts we have received from these great teachers? The simplest thing to do would be to pool our resources, to gather those who learned from the Murrays, to trade notes and hands-on work, to share with each other. We have lots and lots of film footage of the Murrays at work that needs to be viewed and edited and commented on. We have lots to learn from each other about what we have learned from the Murrays. And we have much to share with the wider Alexander Technique community that too often remains baffled by the deep work the Murrays were engaged in. Another big resource to us is the science of human origins (paleoanthropology), a field that Dart helped found. It has exploded with new discoveries since his time, but Dart’s basic insight that human uprightness long predates the flowering of our intelligence is still regarded as basic to an understanding of how our species evolved. All paleoanthropologist know about Dart’s fossil discoveries, but none of them have known about his Procedures, his practical work of helping his son stand and walk and the articles he wrote about it. It is time we learn from the scientists, and time that they learn about us. We are contemplating a joint conference with them on Human Uprightness and Bipedalism. We are considering making a film about it called ‘On Two Feet’. Please join me to brainstorm how to proceed with all this. Your input matters.

Private Lesson | Ruth Kilroy

Friday Private Lessons 11:00 - 11:30

Speakers
  • Ruth Kilroy

Small Group | Pamela Blanc

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 11am - 12:30pm

Speakers
  • Pamlea Blanc

Small Group | Brian McCullough

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 11am - 12:30pm

Speakers
  • Brian McCullough

Private Lesson | Ruth Kilroy

Friday Private Lessons 11:30 - 12:00

Speakers
  • Ruth Kilroy

Private Lesson | Ruth Kilroy

Friday Private Lessons 12 - 12:30

Speakers
  • Ruth Kilroy

Ease on Skis

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Erik Bendix
    Erik Bendix is an AmSAT-certified Teacher of the Alexander Technique. He trained in the 1990s with Frank Ottiwell, Joan and Alex Murray, and Walter Carrington. Erik assisted on Vivien and Neil Schapera’s Cincinnati training for five years, worked with musicians with Vivien Mackie, helped represent the Technique at the 2012-13 Embodied Mind conferences in Paris and Gargonza and taught Alexander Technique in Taiwan and at Pomona College. He is trained in both Dart Procedures© and Body-Mind CenteringSM, disciplines that explore how movement develops in infants. He trained in BMC® with Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen in the 1990s, created The Learning Curve workshops to explore scoliosis, and developed his own Ease on Skis ski teaching method based on the Technique which he has taught at many workshops. Trained as an philosopher at Oxford and Princeton, Erik is a published poet and is known worldwide as a folk dance teacher.
Summary
Erik Bendix | OK, it’s the middle of the summer. Why even think about skiing? Because thinking about it helps you do it, and may even help you think about how you walk, how you stand and sit, how you turn to look at things or turn a corner as you walk, how you relate to the shape of the ground, and how gravity informs your life every second. A modest list. It will upend how you think about skiing, and may even change how you think about the Alexander Technique. Another reason to think about skiing now is that Ease on Skis may finally be coming to North America this next winter, actually to Salt Lake City! Here is your chance to try the program out without having to deal with cold and snow and ski equipment. In fact, even in our winter programs, we go through all our movement explorations indoors before trying them on the slopes, to make your learning curve as safe and gentle as possible. It’s fun! We’ll be practicing ‘Ease’ this time. The ‘on Skis’ part can come later.

Antagonistic Action and the Double-Spiral Part 1

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Elizabeth Johnson
    Elizabeth Johnson (MFA, M.AmSAT, RSME/T, RYT200) is a performer, choreographer, educator, Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analyst, certified Teacher of the Alexander Technique (AmSAT & ATI), and Registered Yoga Teacher (200hr). She teaches and presents nationally (US) and internationally on dance/movement pedagogies and somatics that center developmental movement, prosocial/trauma informed education, and critical/feminist perspectives. She has co-authored/authored three book chapters featuring applied Alexander Technique and developmental movement and is, with co-writers Rebecca Nettl-Fiol and Luc Vanier, anticipating the release of their book on an emergent movement analysis tool called Framework for Integration distilled from Alexander Technique, the Dart Procedures, and various somatic and developmental movement practices (University of Illinois Press). Johnson is an Associate Professor in the School of Theatre and Dance at the University of Florida.
  • Luc Vanier MFA, M.AmSAT
    Luc Vanier (MFA, M.AMSAT, MSDE) teaches somatic classes at the University of Utah. As a pedagogue and integral researcher, Luc has lectured and presented his research extensively nationally and internationally and his book “Dance and the Alexander Technique” was published by University of Illinois Press (in Spanish with Pequeña Hoja). He founded the Integral Movement Research Center, and co-created Framework for Integration, a movement analysis system anchored in the way babies and animals move that helps all movers make new, healthier movement decisions and encourages more coordinated and integrated bodily use (upcoming book, Moving into Skill Summer 2024)
  • Rebecca Nettl-Fiol
    Rebecca Nettl-Fiol, Professor of Dance at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, is a choreographer, educator, author, and Alexander technique teacher. She certified with Joan and Alex Murray in 1990, and continued working with them through 2018, when they moved back to London. Her research includes the integration of Alexander technique and Dart Procedures in dance training, resulting in a co-authored book, Dance and the Alexander Technique: Exploring the Missing Link. Other publications include The Body Eclectic: Evolving Practices in Dance Training, and a chapter in Martha Eddy’s book, Mindful Movement: The Somatic Arts and Conscious Action. She is a frequent presenter and guest teacher throughout the U.S. and abroad, and is the recipient of the University of Illinois Campus Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching. Her continuing work with Luc Vanier and Elizabeth Johnson includes the development of their comprehensive system, Framework for Integration, which offers a multi-layered model for understanding and redirecting movement habits and patterns, helping all movers make healthier movement decisions toward a more coordinated and integrated bodily use.
Summary
Elizabeth Johnson | Rebecca Nettl-Fiol | Luc Vanier |Note: This is a two-part sequential workshop, and it is strongly recommended that you register for both parts. Antagonistic Action is a term that Joan and Alex Murray often used in their teaching to refer to the toning of the musculature that elicits coordination of the whole. Alexander once referred to “antagonistic action” as “the great principle” in his technique. As Alexander Technique teachers who have engaged deeply with the principles of Dart as developed and taught by the Murrays, we propose that Antagonistic Action can be best understood by recognizing that our double-spiral arrangement allows for a variety of oppositional forces to work synchronously, to elicit the spring that brings coordinated movement into play in any activity. Our Framework for Integration, developed over the past 25 years, offers a comprehensive system for gauging and redirecting movement habits and patterns. This three-part workshop will feature Framework applications that delve into the double-spiral, first by outlining and exploring the line of musculature throughout the body, followed by several applications that will enliven and demonstrate how the double-spiral activity can operate in various situations, whether working on ourselves or with others. I. Standing: Luc Vanier II. Loading and Springing: Elizabeth Johnson III. Timing and the Rhythmic Nature of Antagonistic Action: Rebecca Nettl-Fiol All three sections will include exploration of the principles and applications to Alexander teaching.'

Adjunct Faculty Roundtable

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Amanda MacDonald
    Amanda Blair MacDonald, M.AmSAT, MFA, R-MPA Amanda was already teaching dance and movement for actors in NYC when she entered her Alexander Technique teacher training with Beret Arcaya. Each day she trained in the morning and incorporated what she was learning into her teaching in the afternoons. For 6 years she taught concurrently at The American Academy for Dramatic Arts, The American Musical and Dramatic Academy, and The Ailey School, and, in the midst of that, graduated from the Dimon Institute in 2006.. During that time she also attended the Dance Education Laboratory at the 92nd Street Y where she was introduced to Laban and a variety of teaching methods. Upon moving to Chicago, Amanda began to build her private practice alongside her group teaching. She studied pedagogy with Anne Green Gilbert, Yoga with Mira Binzen, Movement Pattern Analysis with Ritu Chander, obtained her MFA from UW Milwaukee, and did continuing education in Alexander Technique with Joan and Alex Murray, Luc Vanier, Alice Olsher, and Mio Morales. Currently Amanda teaches at DePaul University, Roosevelt University, the University of Illinois-Chicago (UIC), and continues her private practice.
Summary
Amanda MacDonald | Many AmSAT members work teaching Alexander Technique in universities and conservatories, and many trainees hope to do the same. However, unless an Alexander Teacher has another area of expertise, they will likely work as adjunct faculty instead of full-time/tenure track. Today's adjunct faculty face many issues including fair pay, lack of benefits, and job security. If you currently teach in an institution or want to do so, please join this roundtable to discuss your experiences and the state of adjunct faculty in today's educational environment.

Bridging Generations

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Ariel Carson
    Ariel is also a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and SE training assistant. She has assisted at The Juilliard School, and guest taught at Boston University where she earned her BFA. She has also been a guest teacher at The Colburn School, and Saint Ann’s School. Ariel previously worked as a teaching artist for the Leadership Program, teaching leadership skills through the arts to under-served students in New York City public schools. She is the organizer of the Healing for Activists NYC chapter. From her work with U.S. veterans, to performers, to activists, to the LGBTQ+ community, Ariel is most interested in teaching the Alexander Technique as part of a holistic and multifaceted approach to cultivating greater sustainability, vitality, and freedom in the body-minds of her current and future clients. www.wavesomatics.com
  • Nanette Walsh
    Nanette Walsh, m.AmSAT, M.F.A., M.A. is the director of RIAT (Riverside Initiative for the Alexander Technique) Teacher Certification Program, which she founded in 2014. More recently, she formed RIAT's umbrella nonprofit organization,Sapientia Initiative, Inc..(2020). Previously, Nan co-founded and then co-directed Alexander Technique New York City. She has been training teachers in various capacities since 2005. As director of training, she has graduated over sixty AmSAT certified teachers, many of whom have gone on to successful careers teaching AT privately and/or at major educational and performing arts institutions.
Summary
Nanette Walsh | Ariel Carson | Our individual and collective practice of the Alexander Technique is connected to a web of support which links us to all the teachers who have come before us. This workshop will playfully explore practical procedures (as we understand them), engaged as templates for learning, provided by F.M. Alexander and the first-generation teachers. Through these structured practices, we simultaneously deepen the roots of our work and allow it to grow freely— uniquely expressed through ourselves and each new generation of teachers.

Private Lesson | Alice Olsher

Friday Private Lessons 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Speakers
  • Alice Olsher M.AmSAT

Small Group | Kim Jessor

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

Small Group | Ruth Kilroy

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 2pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Ruth Kilroy

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Friday Private Lessons 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Private Lesson | Alice Olsher

Friday Private Lessons 2:30 pm - 3:00pm

Speakers
  • Alice Olsher M.AmSAT

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Friday Private Lessons 2:30 pm - 3:00pm

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Private Lesson | Alice Olsher

Friday Private Lessons 3:00 pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Alice Olsher M.AmSAT

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Friday Private Lessons 3:00 pm - 3:30pm

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Antagonistic Action and the Double-Spiral Part 2

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Elizabeth Johnson
    Elizabeth Johnson (MFA, M.AmSAT, RSME/T, RYT200) is a performer, choreographer, educator, Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analyst, certified Teacher of the Alexander Technique (AmSAT & ATI), and Registered Yoga Teacher (200hr). She teaches and presents nationally (US) and internationally on dance/movement pedagogies and somatics that center developmental movement, prosocial/trauma informed education, and critical/feminist perspectives. She has co-authored/authored three book chapters featuring applied Alexander Technique and developmental movement and is, with co-writers Rebecca Nettl-Fiol and Luc Vanier, anticipating the release of their book on an emergent movement analysis tool called Framework for Integration distilled from Alexander Technique, the Dart Procedures, and various somatic and developmental movement practices (University of Illinois Press). Johnson is an Associate Professor in the School of Theatre and Dance at the University of Florida.
  • Luc Vanier MFA, M.AmSAT
    Luc Vanier (MFA, M.AMSAT, MSDE) teaches somatic classes at the University of Utah. As a pedagogue and integral researcher, Luc has lectured and presented his research extensively nationally and internationally and his book “Dance and the Alexander Technique” was published by University of Illinois Press (in Spanish with Pequeña Hoja). He founded the Integral Movement Research Center, and co-created Framework for Integration, a movement analysis system anchored in the way babies and animals move that helps all movers make new, healthier movement decisions and encourages more coordinated and integrated bodily use (upcoming book, Moving into Skill Summer 2024)
  • Rebecca Nettl-Fiol
    Rebecca Nettl-Fiol, Professor of Dance at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, is a choreographer, educator, author, and Alexander technique teacher. She certified with Joan and Alex Murray in 1990, and continued working with them through 2018, when they moved back to London. Her research includes the integration of Alexander technique and Dart Procedures in dance training, resulting in a co-authored book, Dance and the Alexander Technique: Exploring the Missing Link. Other publications include The Body Eclectic: Evolving Practices in Dance Training, and a chapter in Martha Eddy’s book, Mindful Movement: The Somatic Arts and Conscious Action. She is a frequent presenter and guest teacher throughout the U.S. and abroad, and is the recipient of the University of Illinois Campus Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching. Her continuing work with Luc Vanier and Elizabeth Johnson includes the development of their comprehensive system, Framework for Integration, which offers a multi-layered model for understanding and redirecting movement habits and patterns, helping all movers make healthier movement decisions toward a more coordinated and integrated bodily use.
Summary
Elizabeth Johnson | Rebecca Nettl-Fiol | Luc Vanier | Note: This is a two-part sequential workshop, and it is strongly recommended that you register for both parts. Antagonistic Action is a term that Joan and Alex Murray often used in their teaching to refer to the toning of the musculature that elicits coordination of the whole. Alexander once referred to “antagonistic action” as “the great principle” in his technique. As Alexander Technique teachers who have engaged deeply with the principles of Dart as developed and taught by the Murrays, we propose that Antagonistic Action can be best understood by recognizing that our double-spiral arrangement allows for a variety of oppositional forces to work synchronously, to elicit the spring that brings coordinated movement into play in any activity. Our Framework for Integration, developed over the past 25 years, offers a comprehensive system for gauging and redirecting movement habits and patterns. This three-part workshop will feature Framework applications that delve into the double-spiral, first by outlining and exploring the line of musculature throughout the body, followed by several applications that will enliven and demonstrate how the double-spiral activity can operate in various situations, whether working on ourselves or with others. I. Standing: Luc Vanier II. Loading and Springing: Elizabeth Johnson III. Timing and the Rhythmic Nature of Antagonistic Action: Rebecca Nettl-Fiol All three sections will include exploration of the principles and applications to Alexander teaching.

Panel Discussion: Writing about the Alexander Technique

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Amanda MacDonald
Summary
Amanda MacDonald | One of the ways to spread the message of the Alexander Technique and our expertise in the world is by writing books. Are you interested in writing but don't know how to begin? Have you started writing but don't know how to make the next step? Bring your ideas and questions! During this panel discussion, AmSAT members who are published authors will share their experiences, including why they decided to write, how they found their publishers, how they've benefitted from having a book, and what they recommend to members who want to write.

Touch, consent, and boundaries: Exploring the connections between the Alexander Technique and Intimacy Direction

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Kelley Schoger
Summary
Kelley Schoger | In the burgeoning field of intimacy work for stage and screen, professionals play a vital role across production, fulfilling three primary functions. They act as advocates for performers, facilitating communication as liaisons with other production staff, and craft choreography for intimate moments. The significance of this role has surged over the past six to seven years. In the wake of the #MeToo movement, which laid bare the abuses within the entertainment industry, numerous productions sought to affirm their commitment to safety. Hiring an intimacy director or coordinator emerged as a step in this direction. As advocates for actors, intimacy professionals undergo training to cultivate spaces prioritizing consent and ethical conduct. This involves instilling boundary practices before choreographing intimate scenes. The mandate for consent, particularly concerning touch, is becoming a universal standard in performance spaces, classrooms, and even the environment of the Alexander Technique studio. The refined touch and acute listening skills inherent to Alexander Technique training can prove invaluable in the realm of intimacy work. Conversely, the emerging landscape of consent-driven practices within intimacy work offers invaluable insights for Alexander teachers navigating this new paradigm. Far from diluting creative and teaching processes, consent-based practices in both classroom and rehearsal settings foster environments of safety, equity, and trust. In this workshop, the potential synergy between intimacy work and the Alexander Technique will be explored.'

Private Lesson | Richard Brennan

Friday Private Lessons 4:00 - 4:30

Speakers
  • Richard Brennan

Small Group | Robert Britton

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Robert Britton

Small Group | Alice Olsher

Friday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 4pm - 5:30pm

Speakers
  • Alice Olsher M.AmSAT

Private Lesson | Richard Brennan

Friday Private Lessons 4:30 - 5:00

Speakers
  • Richard Brennan

Private Lesson | Richard Brennan

Friday Private Lessons 5:00 - 5:30

Speakers
  • Richard Brennan

BIPOC Reception

Friday BIPOC Reception 5:30pm - 6:30pm

Summary
BIPOC Reception (Only for attendees who are Black, Indigenous, or People of Color). If you identify as Black, Indigenous, or as a Person of Color (BIPOC), please consider joining this reception! Let's connect, share experiences, and forge meaningful connections as we celebrate the diversity and resilience of our BIPOC community in AmSAT.

Private Lesson | Karen Dewig

Saturday Private Lessons 8:00 - 8:30

Speakers
  • Karen DeWig

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Saturday Private Lessons 8:00 - 8:30

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

Private Lesson | Frances Marsden

Saturday Private Lessons 8:00 - 8:30

Speakers
  • Frances Marsden

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Saturday Private Lessons 8:00 - 8:30

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Private Lesson | Karen Dewig

Saturday Private Lessons 8:30 - 9:00 AM

Speakers
  • Karen DeWig

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Saturday Private Lessons 8:30 - 9:00 AM

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

Private Lesson | Frances Marsden

Saturday Private Lessons 8:30 - 9:00 AM

Speakers
  • Frances Marsden

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Saturday Private Lessons 8:30 - 9:00 AM

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Trainees Workshop

Saturday Trainee Workshop 9am - 12pm

Speakers
  • Elizabeth Johnson
    Elizabeth Johnson (MFA, M.AmSAT, RSME/T, RYT200) is a performer, choreographer, educator, Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analyst, certified Teacher of the Alexander Technique (AmSAT & ATI), and Registered Yoga Teacher (200hr). She teaches and presents nationally (US) and internationally on dance/movement pedagogies and somatics that center developmental movement, prosocial/trauma informed education, and critical/feminist perspectives. She has co-authored/authored three book chapters featuring applied Alexander Technique and developmental movement and is, with co-writers Rebecca Nettl-Fiol and Luc Vanier, anticipating the release of their book on an emergent movement analysis tool called Framework for Integration distilled from Alexander Technique, the Dart Procedures, and various somatic and developmental movement practices (University of Illinois Press). Johnson is an Associate Professor in the School of Theatre and Dance at the University of Florida.
  • Luc Vanier MFA, M.AmSAT
    Luc Vanier (MFA, M.AMSAT, MSDE) teaches somatic classes at the University of Utah. As a pedagogue and integral researcher, Luc has lectured and presented his research extensively nationally and internationally and his book “Dance and the Alexander Technique” was published by University of Illinois Press (in Spanish with Pequeña Hoja). He founded the Integral Movement Research Center, and co-created Framework for Integration, a movement analysis system anchored in the way babies and animals move that helps all movers make new, healthier movement decisions and encourages more coordinated and integrated bodily use (upcoming book, Moving into Skill Summer 2024)
Summary
Luc Vanier | Elizabeth Johnson | Enjoy a 3 hour intensive training with Luc Vanier and Elizabeth Johnson for AT TRAINEES only. Experience their unique style and framework via hands on work and discussion, including plenty of time for questions and answers.

Private Lesson | Pam Bartlett

Saturday Private Lessons 1:00 pm - 1:30pm

Speakers
  • Pamela Bartlett

Private Lesson | Richard Brennan

Saturday Private Lessons 1:00 pm - 1:30pm

Speakers
  • Richard Brennan

Private Lesson | Alice Olsher

Saturday Private Lessons 1:00 pm - 1:30pm

Speakers
  • Alice Olsher M.AmSAT

Private Lesson | Nanette Walsh

Saturday Private Lessons 1:00 pm - 1:30pm

Speakers
  • Nanette Walsh

Private Lesson | Judith Stern

Saturday Private Lessons 1:00 pm - 1:30pm

Speakers
  • Judith Stern MA PT

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Saturday Private Lessons 1:00 pm - 1:30pm

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Private Lesson | Richard Brennan

Saturday Private Lessons 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm

Speakers
  • Richard Brennan

Private Lesson | Alice Olsher

Saturday Private Lessons 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm

Speakers
  • Alice Olsher M.AmSAT

Private Lesson | Nanette Walsh

Saturday Private Lessons 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm

Speakers
  • Nanette Walsh

Private Lesson | Judith Stern

Saturday Private Lessons 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm

Speakers
  • Judith Stern MA PT

Private Lesson | Barbara Kent

Saturday Private Lessons 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm

Speakers
  • Barbara Kent

Private Lesson | Julia Caulder

Saturday Private Lessons 4:30 - 5:00

Speakers
  • Julia Caulder

Private Lesson | Kathy Miranda

Saturday Private Lessons 4:30 - 5:00

Speakers
  • Kathy Miranda

Private Lesson | Rebecca Nettl-Fiol

Saturday Private Lessons 4:30 - 5:00

Speakers
  • Rebecca Nettl-Fiol

Expansive Whispered Ah

Saturday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 5pm - 6:30pm

Speakers
  • Robert Britton
    Robert Britton (Bob) trained as an Alexander Technique teacher with Frank Ottiwell and Giora Pinkas, and graduated in 1978 . In addition to his private practice he taught the Alexander Technique to musicians at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music for 39 years. He has helped train Alexander Technique Teachers since 1988 in San Francisco, Berkeley, Berlin and Hamburg. He served as chairman of the American Society for the Alexander Technique from 1997 to 1999, and he was a faculty member of the Bay Area Summer Opera Training Institute (BASOTI) for many years. He has contributing to the well being of the international Alexander Technique Affiliated Societies, and the Annual Members Meeting of the Affiliated Societies.  He was a co-director of the International Congress of the Alexander Technique in Lugano Switzerland in 2011, serves on the ATCA Board, and is currently helping on the 2025 Congress which will be held in Berlin Germany this August. He was chairman of the “Complete Musicians Department” of the San Francisco Conservatory and in 2012 Bob was awarded the George S. Sarlo Award which is given for excellence in teaching in Northern California universities and colleges.
Summary
Robert Britton | In this fun workshop we will be exploring how the Whispered Ah is completely integrated with every other part body including our movement systems. So often vocal professionals do not realize how the quality of rest of the body affects vocal production. Alexander teachers are uniquely qualified to teach them how to adjust their entire body for peak vocal and emotional performance. In this workshop we will be tuning the entire body using the Whispered Ah, integrating our hands on touch with the voice, and realizing that the voice and breath are an essential part of wholeness.

A Modern Approach to Hands On the Back of the Chair Procedure

Saturday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 5pm - 6:30pm

Speakers
  • Wes Howard
    Wes Howard has studied the Alexander Technique since 1988. Wes first started training with Bruce and Martha Fertman in 1989, but eventually certified in 1994 with Joan and Alex Murray. He has kept a lively teaching practice in three Central Illinois cities for the past 30 years and now travels the US and Europe to give workshops and Continuing Ed teacher trainings. He continually studied and learned from his primary montor Joan Murray for 27 years. He has a wide ranging understanding of the different lineages of the Technique; having also studied with Marj Barstow, Shoshanna Kaminitz and John Nichols.
Summary
Westley Howard | Applying Spirals and Developmental Movement to Alexander's Hands on the Back of the Chair (HOBC) procedure: The subtleties of the use of the arms as described in F.M.’s Illustration of HOBC in Constructive Conscious Control of the Individual is notoriously esoteric and difficult to interpret. As a result, many teachers admit they don’t fully grasp the procedure and never teach it. F.M. is quoted as saying that HOBC gives you everything you need to know about hands-on teaching, so the importance of this procedure is not in doubt. We will discuss Alexander’s Illustration of HOBC and how I believe he was struggling with words to describe it. Using more modern language and directions describing spiral/helical movements and developmental movements like crawling, we can more easily understand F.M.'s arm directions. This can enhance the freedom, elasticity and power of the connection between your back and limbs all the way to your fingers. All will participate with hands-on trades and application to Table Work, one of the best places to practice and apply it. Even experienced teachers may find these principles valuable for simplifying HOBC for their students. Teachers and Trainees welcome.

The Spiral of Learning: Growth Through Themes and Variations

Saturday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 5pm - 6:30pm

Speakers
  • Collaborating8
    Collaborating8: Melissa Brown, Joan Frost, Kim Jessor, Kathy Miranda, Judy Stern, Rebecca Tuffey, and Barbara Kent The Collaborating8 is a collective of AT teachers deeply rooted in our ACAT training and our years participating together as part of the ACAT faculty. We have been meeting monthly since the fall of 2022, with the intention of growing and learning together. We have shared our experiences and what is alive for us from our private practices, teaching in university and conservatory settings, leading retreats and workshops, mentoring, presenting previous workshops together, as well as exchanging in dyads and trios. Our creative group process has been rich and lively with an emphasis on honoring our differences and learning from them. What has emerged is a creative curiosity and some remarkable discoveries. We continue as a “work in progress" and are excited to share our process and what we have learned with the AT Community at this 2024 ACGM.
Summary
Members of the Collaborating8 | In this workshop we will apply the Alexander principles in a collaborative experiential format, designed to stimulate in you a deeper understanding of how and why you teach. We will provide multiple opportunities for participating teachers and trainees to experiment with us and with one another. We will take you on a journey of self-discovery emphasizing the skills of 1.effective communication 2. empathy and 3. the ability to think critically. We believe that these skills, applied to teaching and learning the Alexander Technique, will support your ability to adapt, innovate and grow as a human being, as a student and as a teacher. We will be working with two themes; Inhibition and Expanding Awareness. Each of us six teachers will take a turn at leading an exploration of one of these, so you will have exposure to a variety of takes through a variety of formats. There will be hands-on, working in pairs and small groups, and verbal sharing to help make fresh connections. Our aim is to create a structure where learning and play can take place between and from anyone in the room. Join us for this exploration as we share what we have learned from our collaboration. It will be illuminating, lively and fun. We will encourage your active participation and creativity as well as your questions, comments and suggestions for deeper learning together. Bring your heart as well as your head for this time together!

Small Group | Richard Brennan

Saturday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 5pm - 6:30pm

Speakers
  • Richard Brennan

Small Group | Frances Marsden

Saturday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 5pm - 6:30pm

Speakers
  • Frances Marsden

Small Group | Nanette Walsh

Saturday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 5pm - 6:30pm

Speakers
  • Nanette Walsh

Private Lesson | Julia Caulder

Saturday Private Lessons 6:30 to 7:00 PM

Speakers
  • Julia Caulder

Private Lesson | Kathy Miranda

Saturday Private Lessons 6:30 to 7:00 PM

Speakers
  • Kathy Miranda

Private Lesson | Rebecca Nettl-Fiol

Saturday Private Lessons 6:30 to 7:00 PM

Speakers
  • Rebecca Nettl-Fiol

Fundraiser/Gala

Saturday Gala Event 7:30pm - 10pm

Summary
Conference social event.

Supporting with the Arms: From Baby to Adult

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Rose Bronec
    Rose Bronec is an Alexander Technique teacher, certified in 1980. Having trained with Goddard Binkley, Rose sought opportunities to learn from others trained by F. M. Alexander––Marjorie Barstow, Walter Carrington, Peggy Williams. She spent many years working with Joan and Alex Murray. Rose has exclusively taught the Technique wherever she has lived, reestablishing her private practice at each new location––Chicago, southeast Florida, and Urbana, Illinois. In 1991, once settled in Urbana, Rose first assisted and now directs the training of Alexander Technique teachers. She hosts teacher refreshers and teaches workshops at conferences. The individual and their unique experience has kept Rose growing and learning every day.
Summary
Rose Bronec | Babies offer an accessible model as their movements develop in early months from supporting with their arms to supporting with their legs around twelve months. As adults, we are out-of-touch with this early experience. Our arms no longer support us. Possibly, they pull us down, brace or stiffen as we use them to touch, hold, carry, pick up and set down objects. However, when our arms begin to serve us, more similar to the baby gaining distance from the floor with their arms, we can experience greater lightness and freedom in our arm movements. Founder of the Alexander Technique, F. M. Alexander wrote of “supporting the torso with the arms”. In Binkley’s diary of private lessons with F. M., he provides this F. M. quote, “stop doing with the neck what needs to be done only with the arms or legs, etc.” The subtle adjustments and adaptations the baby makes as they press against or pull along the floor extends through the length of their arms to the sternum and engages the back providing them with support for actions. This same supportive energy through the arms can be present to us as adults. The workshop will use selected baby movements on the floor to inform simple adult arm movements while seated and standing.'

Safe Enough to Grow

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Ariel Carson
    Ariel is also a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and SE training assistant. She has assisted at The Juilliard School, and guest taught at Boston University where she earned her BFA. She has also been a guest teacher at The Colburn School, and Saint Ann’s School. Ariel previously worked as a teaching artist for the Leadership Program, teaching leadership skills through the arts to under-served students in New York City public schools. She is the organizer of the Healing for Activists NYC chapter. From her work with U.S. veterans, to performers, to activists, to the LGBTQ+ community, Ariel is most interested in teaching the Alexander Technique as part of a holistic and multifaceted approach to cultivating greater sustainability, vitality, and freedom in the body-minds of her current and future clients. www.wavesomatics.com
Summary
Ariel Carson | How do you identify the unique conditions each student/group requires for growth to occur? In this workshop we will discuss and practice how you can be more conscious of the ways in which you attune to, and interact with, your students so that they feel relatively safe and supported in themselves and your space. Expansion then follows.

Teaching from the Right Hemisphere

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Kathy Miranda
    Kathryn Miranda has been teaching the Alexander Technique for thirty+ years and has been involved in teacher training and teacher refreshers for most of those years. She is on the faculty of the Syracuse University’s Drama Department and Setnor School of Music. She has an ongoing interest in the evolutionary, physiological, and yet-to-be-understood underpinnings of the discoveries of F. M. Alexander. She has been fascinated by Iain McGilchrist's work on the differences between the two hemispheres of the brain. She organized a monthly book club of Alexander teachers and other somatic practitioners to read "The Matter with Things, Our Brains, Our Delusions and the Unmaking of the World." She attributes her openness and curiosity in lifelong learning to the influence of one of teachers, Judy Leibowitz. To honor Judy, she edited a variety of original transcripts and recordings into the book Dare To Be Wrong. (https://www.acatnyc.org/blog-posts/2014/10/02/dare-to-be-wrong-by-judith-leibowitz-now-available-on-kindle)
Summary
Kathy Miranda | According to Iain McGilchrist’s two seminal books “The Master and the Emissary” and “The Matter with Things” (see quote below) there are basic differences between the brain’s hemispheres that have major implications in how we attend to ourselves and how we attend to the world around us. To highlight a couple that are meaningful to the Alexander Community: • The left hemisphere is about creating a representation of reality and then predicting outcomes that match the previous experiences. It tends to stick to what it knows, seeing what it wants to see and missing the nuances and novelty of the moment. It can also be overconfident and doesn’t like to be wrong. • The right hemisphere is better at perceiving the reality of the moment and comprehending the gestalt, the wholeness of experience with flow and continuity. It can understand the connections and interrelationships without dividing into parts. McGilchrist theorizes that within the inherent asymmetry of the two hemispheres, the right hemisphere has a better handle on truth and reality and should be the Master and the left very capable of carrying out plans and getting basic needs met, should be the Emissary. I suggest that Alexander Technique at its best is essentially a path honoring the innate capabilities of the right hemisphere. I wonder if our emphasis on Use of Self and Primary Control puts the left hemisphere in the driver’s seat. If that’s the case, it could have the following limitations: • AT practice and teaching can be mechanical, prescriptive, and possibly manipulative, • The model of good use, not as holistic as we like to think, advantages some aspects of self over others (muscular skeletal system over more emotional systems of the parasympathic, fascial or digestive systems), • The wisdom of the right hemisphere is neglected, ignored or dismissed. As an individual who has been affected by left/right imbalances in both mind and body, I hope to offer ways that give the right hemisphere permission to come to the fore. I will share some of McGilchrist’s research and invite teachers to explore the implications of this asymmetry in thoughts, feelings and actions. “What I have shown in these chapters is that the left hemisphere is, compared with the right hemisphere, unreliable in just about every way that matters. In terms of attention to the world, and its role in thereby constructing and understanding experience; in its inability to comprehend time, space and motion; in its lack of skill in conveying and interpreting emotion; in its (lack of a) sense of the body as a living inseparable part of the self; in the comparative weakness of its faculties for direct perception, for the evaluation of beliefs and for making judgments; and indeed in terms of its lesser intelligence (which means understanding): in all of these it is more vulnerable to falsehood, more likely to deceive us, than the right.” The Matter with Things by Iain McGilchrist, p. 371

Wall Work for Actors: Embodied Exploration in Developing a Character

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Eleanor Taylor
    Eleanor Taylor is a Lecturer in Acting at the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale, where she teaches the Alexander Technique. She has taught Alexander Technique at the Manhattan School of Music and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and currently serves on the faculty at the Riverside Initiative for the Alexander Technique (RIAT), where she has developed the “Breathing & Voice” course for trainees in their teacher certification program. She is on the summer faculty of Respiro Opera’s young artist program. She maintains a private teaching studio in Manhattan, specializing in working with singers and actors to improve performance, prevent injury and reduce anxiety using the Alexander Technique. She is also a certified instructor in Jessica Wolf’s Art of Breathing, and holds B.M. and M.M. degrees in vocal performance from New England Conservatory and the University of Minnesota. Eleanor is currently Chair Elect of AmSAT. www.eleanortaylorAT.com
Summary
Eleanor Taylor | Actors are eager for effective processes to explore embodiment of their characters within their study of the Alexander Technique. Wall work is a creative, productive tool that empowers the actor to practice successfully on their own. This workshop starts with a quick refresher on Alexander “wall work basics”, followed by applications for actors learning text and developing a character while incorporating 3-dimensional breathing and vibrant speaking, using Jessica Wolf’s Art of Breathing. We’ll expand out from the foundation of the AT principles into application to physical transformation and imaginative embodiment, in order to support performers in finding vitality and ease in any physical expression. Whether you are experienced working with actors, or newer to it and interested in learning more, all are welcome to come add to their toolbox of active explorations for actors!

Private Lesson | Karen Dewig

Sunday Private Lessons 9:00 - 9:30 AM

Speakers
  • Karen DeWig

Private Lesson | Nanette Walsh

Sunday Private Lessons 9:00 - 9:30 AM

Speakers
  • Nanette Walsh

Small Group | Julia Caulder

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Julia Caulder

Small Group | Brian McCullough

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 9am - 10:30am

Speakers
  • Brian McCullough

Private Lesson | Karen Dewig

Sunday Private Lessons 9:30 - 10:00 AM

Speakers
  • Karen DeWig

Private Lesson | Nanette Walsh

Sunday Private Lessons 9:30 - 10:00 AM

Speakers
  • Nanette Walsh

Private Lesson | Karen Dewig

Sunday Private Lessons 10:00 - 10:30 AM

Speakers
  • Karen DeWig

Private Lesson | Nanette Walsh

Sunday Private Lessons 10:00 - 10:30 AM

Speakers
  • Nanette Walsh

Four Alexander Techniques

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 1:30pm - 3pm

Speakers
  • John Appleton
Summary
John Appleton

Alexander Technique & How to write about the technique (articles, books, websites)

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 1:30pm - 3pm

Speakers
  • Richard Brennan
    Richard Brennan has studied the Alexander Technique since 1983 and has been a fully qualified teacher since 1989 having undergone a three-year teacher training course approved by STAT (UK); he travels internationally giving talks and courses on the Technique. He has taught the Technique at many educational centres including Indiana University, Penn (US), Temple University (US) Arcadia University (US) Galway University (IRE), Limerick University (IRE), DIT Conservatory of Music and Drama (IRE), Dartington College of Arts (UK), and Middlesex University (UK). He was a director of the 2015 Alexander Congress in Limerick and is the organiser of the 2013 and 2017 Alexander Teacher’s Conventions in Dublin. He has been a guest presenter at the AmSAT AGM in SF 2009, LA 2014 and NY 2019 Richard has written eight books on the Alexander Technique, which are translated into 24 languages and are on sale world-wide - the titles including The Alexander Technique Workbook, Change your Posture – Change your Life, Back in Balance and How to Breathe He is now writing his 9th book called Evolved to Move – A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. He is currently the Director of the only Alexander Teacher Training College and has been for the last 26 years, Ireland which is STAT approved and is affiliated with Indiana University, Pennsalvenia and the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Navarra. He is also the past president and the co-founder of the Irish Society of Alexander Technique Teachers. (ISSAT). He has given over 1000 introductory talks and public workshops about the Technique over the last 30 years. These groups have consisted of between 8 and 250 people.
Summary
Richard Brennan | Perhaps you like to write effectively about the Alexander work? Well you can! You just need a few simple tips and hints to start the writing process. You may want to write something for your website or an article for the local or national paper. But why stop there… what about writing an Alexander book? This workshop is designed to give you the confidence to start to write about the work you love in a simple and powerful way. You will learn to: • Be engaging and inspiring when writing. • Explain the principles simply and effectively. • Share your Alexander experiences in a way that moves and inspires others. • Avoid Alexander Jargon. • Prepare websites, business cards and leaflets. Please bring a pen and notepad as well as your questions and stories! All welcome!

The Alexander Technique and the Voice

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 1:30pm - 3pm

Speakers
  • Marisa De Silva
    Marisa De Silva is a soprano, voice teacher, and Certified Teacher of the Alexander Technique. As a singer she has performed in numerous festivals in Europe and in Asia as well as throughout North America. In addition to the operatic repertoire, Ms. De Silva has distinguished herself particularly in the field of early music performance practice and art song repertoires of Spain, Japan, Ibero-America, and new music.
Summary
Marisa De Silva | As an opera director and a voice teacher, I work with singers. We’ll look at AT principles that apply to the voice. We’ll explore breath and phonation, incorporating typical vocal warmups for singers. So, come prepared to sing. We’ll also examine different alignments as they affect singing. This workshop explores practical vocal techniques for everyone, incorporating the Alexander Technique (AT) for effortless voice use. Learn breath control for powerful speaking and singing, discover simple warm-ups used by professionals, and gain tools to avoid vocal strain based on AT principles.

Let’s talk about Alexander Teaching Styles and Lineages

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 1:30pm - 3pm

Speakers
  • Wes Howard
    Wes Howard has studied the Alexander Technique since 1988. Wes first started training with Bruce and Martha Fertman in 1989, but eventually certified in 1994 with Joan and Alex Murray. He has kept a lively teaching practice in three Central Illinois cities for the past 30 years and now travels the US and Europe to give workshops and Continuing Ed teacher trainings. He continually studied and learned from his primary montor Joan Murray for 27 years. He has a wide ranging understanding of the different lineages of the Technique; having also studied with Marj Barstow, Shoshanna Kaminitz and John Nichols.
Summary
Wes Howard | Roundtable discussion led by Wes Howard. In the spirit of belonging, improving our teaching skill and moving forward with the future of the Work, let’s talk about the differences and similarities between the different lineages of the Technique. There are many of us, including myself, who trained in more than one lineage and who could offer deep insight into the similarities and differences in how we approach our work. Since I started training in the late 80’s at a Barstow lineage course and then switched to the Murray/Dart Procedures lineage, I was always struck by the schisms in our work. I have always been fascinated taking lessons in other styles and thought we can all learn from each other as each style or lineage has an important piece of the Alexander Technique puzzle. My particular interest would be to hear other people describe the differences in hands-on approach or procedures of different styles. Questions to consider: What are the different lineages? What are the qualities, concepts, philosophies that are similar? It's pretty clear that for example, Carrington, Macdonald and Barstow lineages teach differently, so how would we demonstrate the differences in thought and hands-on work? Can we find our common ground and come together as a profession? I hope we can all participate and learn from each other and help each other become better teachers. All are welcome from Senior teachers to trainees, but come with an open, non-judgmental mind that wants to share, expand and learn.

Private Lesson | Brian McCullough

Sunday Private Lessons 1:30 - 200 PM

Speakers
  • Brian McCullough

Small Group | Alice Olsher

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 1:30pm - 3pm

Speakers
  • Alice Olsher M.AmSAT

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Sunday Private Lessons 1:30 - 200 PM

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

Private Lesson | Brian McCullough

Sunday Private Lessons 2:00 - 2:30 PM

Speakers
  • Brian McCullough

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Sunday Private Lessons 2:00 - 2:30 PM

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

Private Lesson | Brian McCullough

Sunday Private Lessons 2:30 - 3:00 PM

Speakers
  • Brian McCullough

Private Lesson | Kim Jessor

Sunday Private Lessons 2:30 - 3:00 PM

Speakers
  • Kim Jessor

How to explain the Alexander Technique clearly and simply in a few minutes

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 3:30pm - 5pm

Speakers
  • Richard Brennan
    Richard Brennan has studied the Alexander Technique since 1983 and has been a fully qualified teacher since 1989 having undergone a three-year teacher training course approved by STAT (UK); he travels internationally giving talks and courses on the Technique. He has taught the Technique at many educational centres including Indiana University, Penn (US), Temple University (US) Arcadia University (US) Galway University (IRE), Limerick University (IRE), DIT Conservatory of Music and Drama (IRE), Dartington College of Arts (UK), and Middlesex University (UK). He was a director of the 2015 Alexander Congress in Limerick and is the organiser of the 2013 and 2017 Alexander Teacher’s Conventions in Dublin. He has been a guest presenter at the AmSAT AGM in SF 2009, LA 2014 and NY 2019 Richard has written eight books on the Alexander Technique, which are translated into 24 languages and are on sale world-wide - the titles including The Alexander Technique Workbook, Change your Posture – Change your Life, Back in Balance and How to Breathe He is now writing his 9th book called Evolved to Move – A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. He is currently the Director of the only Alexander Teacher Training College and has been for the last 26 years, Ireland which is STAT approved and is affiliated with Indiana University, Pennsalvenia and the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Navarra. He is also the past president and the co-founder of the Irish Society of Alexander Technique Teachers. (ISSAT). He has given over 1000 introductory talks and public workshops about the Technique over the last 30 years. These groups have consisted of between 8 and 250 people.
Summary
Richard Brennen | Alexander once said ‘I could teach my technique to a three-year-old in 5 minutes, but give me an adult and God help me! So with the myriad of principles and procedures to explain such as use affects functioning, the primary control, directions, Inhibition, end gaining, means whereby, non-doing, faulty sensory appreciation, psycho-physical integration, positions of mechanical advantage, force of habit, lunges, monkey, hands on back of chair, whispered ‘ah’ to name but a few. And if that was not enough to confuse anyone we are more than happy to add more than a dash of anatomy with a sprinkling of physiology plus quite a lot of neuro-science, body mapping and mindfulness . The result is something so complicated that even the Alexander teachers themselves sometimes get confused. So this workshop is about how to introduce the Alexander Technique effectively either individually or in a group setting, such as a talk or a workshop which is a very valuable skill to have. If you can inspire a person an audience with some simple practical demonstrations you can build a teaching practice very quickly. This workshop will show you how to reach your audience, no matter how small or big and explain the technique simply and profoundly without compromising the principles. It will also include looking at how to change emotional habits and mental beliefs that we may have acquired early in life that we now think is normal. Explaining the technique can be very daunting until you know how. During this workshop you will learn how to • Be engaging while teaching • Explain the principles simply and effectively • Avoid Alexander Jargon • Inspire others to try the Alexander Technique • Work on people in a group without the other participants feeling bored Please bring your questions, your stories and your sense of humour! All welcome!

Private Lesson | Brian McCullough

Sunday Private Lessons 3:30 - 4:00 PM

Speakers
  • Brian McCullough

Small Group | Luc Vanier

Sunday WORKSHOPS/Small Groups 3:30pm - 5pm

Speakers
  • Luc Vanier MFA, M.AmSAT

Private Lesson | Pamela Blanc

Sunday Private Lessons 3:30 - 4:00 PM

Speakers
  • Pamlea Blanc

Private Lesson | Pamela Blanc

Sunday Private Lessons 4pm - 4:30pm

Speakers
  • Pamlea Blanc

Private Lesson | Pamela Blanc

Sunday Private Lessons 4:30pm - 5pm

Speakers
  • Pamlea Blanc
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