Relaxation problem while playing.

[Stoda]

Hello, I stumbled across this on the web and hope people don't mind discussing this. I have had a certain problem with my playing for a while now and would appreciate some help.

I find that as I play the organ, typically in the demanding pieces, I seem to be able to breathe only on certain beats of places in the music so that I often feel I have too much air or not enough- this is not something I have time to worry about as I play, and is very distracting. Essentially I want to relax! Any tips on finding a natural breathing pattern as I play would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks fellow organists!
Stoda

[Krummhorn]

Welcome to the forum, Stoda

What works best for me in those situations is that I breathe by "phrases" ... as a new phrase begins I begin to inhale slowly. At the middle of the phrase, I begin to exhale.

For me this helps me feel the music ... become a part of it in some respect. At the very beginning of a piece, I will quickly take in a deep breath and hold it until the first few notes are played.

[marval]

Hello Stoda

Welcome to this great place. I am sure you will get some good advice.


Margaret


Margaret

[Soubasse]

What Krummhorn said, plus, if the piece you're playing is singable, I will actually sing through most phrases whilst playing (only when I'm practicing completely ALONE mind you!) as it is a very personal and physical way of becoming a part of the composition.

It's not always practical in fast, rhythmic pieces though. Sometimes, I'll breathe on upbeats or on syncopated accents if there are any, but again, not always practical - there are many pieces where if you try that, it sounds as though you're hyperventilating!

[peters123]

Don't get too much conscious while playing just treat it like an ordinary thing you will automatically feel good. Moreover, as soon as you will an experience person you will automatically get relaxed and will be working easily on interactive sound design