The results of 3 deep tissue massages brings improved awaress of contact to the earth through the 3 points essential for the pianist: the feet on the floor, the sitz bones on the bench and the fingers on the keys. More conscious of my left hip/right shoulder crossover link, i was able to find deeper release of the right shoulder through a heavier connection of the left sitz bone, more ease for inward rotation of the thigh bone and more weight on the left foot*. Since about 2 months ago, April 1st-Piano Fitness Day, my 2nd map connection awareness continuously strengthens. It was about 2 weeks ago, awareness to release trapezius tension by balancing the shoulders both front/back and bottom/top**, opened the back of the heart center. Only a couple of day ago, for the first time, i was able to consistently focus on my hands on the keys through the glossy black mirror of the fallboard***! It took concentration to not let my eyes dart from hand to hand, but instead, observe both hands (especially both leaders) at the same time !
In this morning’s rehearsal, with weighted left hip, released right shoulder, and with the most ease ever, i observed my hands playing the piano in the fallboard****.
When mapping the mind/body connection for piano, learning to listen to your body as well as the sound your body produces through key contact must be yoked***** with the mind observing the self PLAYING !
* go into the pain to heal the pain-bikram mantra
** “sit like a king.”
*** “it’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.” Thoreau
**** “Awake. Be the witness of your thoughts. You are what observes, not what you observe.” -Anonymous
***** yoke-used of something that represents a bond between two parties. I.e. the mind and body.
