023: Healing from Injuries as a Pianist with Helen Aun

In this episode, we delve into the world of injury prevention and peak performance for pianists with our guest, Helen Aun. Helen, a leading expert in her field and the founder of The Helen Aun Institute, has developed a unique method that combines the Alexander Technique, EFT Tapping, efficient piano technique, and mindset transformation to help pianists unlock their full artistic potential. With over 25 years of teaching experience and a background in both piano pedagogy and performance, she shares invaluable insights on preventing injuries, managing performance anxiety, and creating a supportive learning environment for students. Join us as we explore Helen's innovative approach to piano training and her journey in helping pianists around the world achieve their best.

• Helen shared a brief overview of her background and work experience.
• Her initial training in Alexander Technique, a tool for musicians and performers.
• Some benefits of Alexander Technique, including improved coordination, biomechanics understanding, and stress management.
• Helen shared her personal experience with injuries and her history of pain.
• How her discovery of Alexander Technique provided significant changes in her performance and physical state.
• She shared about developing her own system, focusing on injury-free piano technique, emotional, and mental aspects.
• Common physical mistakes in pianists.
• Advice for teachers of young piano students to help prevent future problems.
• The importance of teachers having adequate training in movement and body coordination.
• Why proper hand positioning is crucial.
• Performance anxiety and advice on managing it in young students.

Guest Links Mentioned

• Helen Aun's Website
• Helen Aun YouTube Channel
• Get in touch with Helen via a Consultation Call here!

Links Mentioned

• Download the latest TopMusic Magazine here.
• Register for the Teaching Beginners Course with Paul Myatt & Tim Topham here.

Today's Guest

Helen Aun is a leading expert in pianists’ injury prevention and peak performance. She is the founder of The Helen Aun Institute, a comprehensive training and rehabilitation program for pianists. Combining the body-mind wisdom of the Alexander Technique, the healing power of EFT Tapping, the precision of efficient, injury-free piano technique and a deep journey of mindset transformation, Helen has developed a unique method that helps pianists unlock their full artistic potential.

Helen has a degree in piano pedagogy and performance and over 25 years of piano teaching experience. She is a certified teacher of the Alexander Technique, having studied at The Alexander Teacher Training School, one of the most prestigious schools in England, where she was later invited to return as a teacher trainer. Helen has held an Alexander Technique teaching position at the Junior Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London and she now trains pianists from all over the world. Her students range from the graduates of the Royal Academy to Juilliard. Helen is also an international speaker, giving lectures and workshops at various organisations globally.

About Rachel Ehring

Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.

TOPMUSICPRO MEMBERSHIP 14-DAY FREE TRIAL

Thank you for tuning in!

Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.

If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.

Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.