A Few Thoughts on Excess Tension in Your Playing

Exploring my own tension habits on the guitar has led me to spend copious hours over the years re-working my technique and movements, and studying with an Alexander Technique teacher (AT is all about breaking habits of tension). I also notice excess tension in many of my students, and work with them to change the habits that lead to it.

The question comes up quite frequently, and so I decided to weigh in publicly on the issue.

Here is an off-the-cuff video with some of my thoughts around tension, and what to do about it. While this video deals with tension in general, I will add that developing the right fundamental techniques and movements is also extremely helpful (or at least not harmful!).

Enjoy!

Hi, I’m Allen Mathews.

I started as a folk guitarist, then fell in love with classical guitar in my 20’s. Despite a lot of practice and schooling, I still couldn’t get my music to flow well. I struggled with excess tension. My music sounded forced. And my hands and body were often sore. I got frustrated, and couldn’t see the way forward. Then, over the next decade, I studied with two other stellar teachers – one focused on the technical movements, and one on the musical (he was a concert pianist). In time, I came to discover a new set of formulas and movements. These brought new life and vitality to my practice. Now I help guitarists find more comfort and flow in their music, so they play more beautifully.
Click here for a sample formula.

Life is good, still enjoying [The Woodshed Program], the progress is life altering, I love it. The physical challenges of my situation have rained havoc for over half my life. In spite of those little pests this 40$ Yamaha classical who needed a new home and your course has given me the "part the clouds for the sun to shine through" outlook. You see, even when I am unable to play I know she patiently waits for my return as I do. A giant void in my journey was filled with light.

-Ken Montz

Thanks to you (you are my only teacher) in only a few months I've gone from very basic beginner pieces to having just completed learning Bach's Gavottes 1&2 in good form and execution. As a non-classical electric guitarist who has always used a pick and never his fingers, this has been no small feat!

-Gregg Olson