One day I saw a video of myself playing my oboe, and saw that I had terrible posture. At the same time, I wasn't happy with my sound production. I decided to take Alexander lessons from John Henes. Not only did my oboe playing improve, but my lower back pain went away. I wish I'd studied the Technique a lot sooner.Bob Morgan, Solo English Horn Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra
The Alexander Technique has helped my physical movements be more efficient and fluid, both on the tennis court and off.Fuad Sulayman Former Touring Tennis Professional
John Henes has shown me how to incorporate the principals of the Alexander Technique into my playing. As a result, my sound is freer and more resonant.Gail Williams, Professor of Horn Northwestern University Former Associate Principal Horn, Chicago Symphony
I'm amazed at how the technique changes one's perspective on comfort. People who've never had a lesson look at the chair and think "iron mama," while those who've had lessons look forward to "the chair" and generally, tend to find simple, firm seating more accommodating than the cushy, misshapen stuff that once passed for comfort.The Technique enables me to enjoy my favorite activities - lap swimming, flute playing, computer illustration - as often as I like, without pain. I have more energy overall, sleep better, and can control my reaction to stressful situations. I recommend John and the Technique to anyone and everyone.Lynne Lasser, Creative Director/Principal Lynne Lasser Creative Communications
John Henes is a terrific Alexander teacher! His teaching has influenced me positively in many ways. I credit him with freeing up my conducting and with giving me a rich vocabulary with which to work when I encourage my singers and players to use their bodies properly in the quest for artistic expression. Also, I'm thankful to him daily when I work at my computer, because I'm able to sit, type, and "mouse" in a manner which does not induce stress, tension, or pain. Many of my "techie" colleagues complain about these problems all of the time. I thank John Henes and his teaching for enabling me to work (and play) in a natural way...Jim Lucas, Professor of Music and Multimedia Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago
John,....Thanks for the help. The trumpet is a lot less difficult with your approach. It seems like playing well isn't such a lucky feeling anymore.Bill Theis, co-principal trumpet Malaysian Philharmaonic Orchestra |