Throughout this series, we will explore movements that help refine awareness of the shoulder girdle and develop or rediscover ease and freedom of movement. Gently, we will explore the many possibilities for movement offered by the different joints that work together in this area.
Often a source of pain or restricted movement, the shoulder girdle — comprising the shoulders, collarbones, shoulder blades and sternum — is also a point of connection between the spinal axis and the agility of the arms. It is therefore heavily involved in instrumental playing, everyday actions such as raising the arms and carrying objects, dance movements involving the arms, and sitting at a computer. The connections between freedom of movement in the neck, the suspension of the larynx and, consequently, vocal quality are often intuitively perceived, even when we are not quite sure how to work with them.
The aim is to invite each participant to explore movements that enable them to make more conscious choices.
Some sessions will include breathing coordination and/or the use of the voice, helping to bring these connections into clearer focus.
Based on verbally guided movement rather than imitation, the Feldenkrais Method helps develop more effective coordination for each action, refine kinaesthetic awareness and gradually eliminate unnecessary effort.
Christine Bertocchi is a singer, voice teacher and certified Feldenkrais® practitioner since 2000. She trained at the Strasbourg International Feldenkrais Training and Feldenkrais Resources in Berkeley, California. Since 2006, she has also been certified in Voice Anatomy by Blandine Calais-Germain and Guy Cornut.
Primarily active in the artistic projects of Compagnie D’un instant à l’autre and as a guest performer with various contemporary music ensembles, she teaches vocal technique, improvisation and the connections between the Feldenkrais Method and musical and stage practices. She works in both continuing professional development (CNFPT, AFDAS training programmes and opera houses) and initial training (national theatre schools, Pôles Sup, CNSMDP, CFMI Île-de-France and the Dijon Conservatoire à rayonnement régional).