Alexander Technique & Movement
working together

The workshop introduces the guiding principles of the Alexander Technique. We focus on embodying Alexander's central premises for increasing awareness and freedom in movement: Simple OBSERVATION of Self - becoming curious, no judgment; PAUSING momentarily to allow ourselves to respond in the moment rather than react habitually; and CHOOSING to move with consciousness, with our body's design, rather than against it.

Activities will include: simple movement studies promoting integration and flexibility; sensory awareness studies; contemplation of our dynamic skeletal structure; everyday life movements explored from an Alexander perspective; and simple movement improvisations. Designed for people new to Alexander, as well as for those who have studied it previously and wish to review and deepen their understanding.




Alexander Lab
Problem Solving for Intermediate Dancers

Alexander Technique cultivates simultaneous embodiment of awareness and action. It invites the question: what patterns of movement and mind can be released? For dancers, this means choice, in the moment -- about how actions initiate and manifest. A defining characteristic of AT is lively attention to the process -- end results reflect the quality of our process. We learn to observe, listen and respond with presence and sensitivity -- bringing immediacy, fluidity and an increased dynamic range to movement.

Self-care: working with an awareness of our inherent design, versus unconsciously fighting against it, results in healthy, resilient dancing. Dancers learn to work efficiently, with a harmony of intention and execution, while reducing vulnerability to injury and strain.

The first part of class highlights the Alexander process and a specific Alexander dynamic/movement characteristic. In the second part of class, we examine dancing issues and concerns that students wish to explore. With a laboratory orientation, these issues will be addressed via an Alexander lens, and the ‘Alexander dynamic of the day.’ Come to class ready to jump in with your questions. All students receive hands-on guidance from Judith.





Alexander Technique & Improvisation

Alexander Technique and improvisation share an orientation towards removing obstacles to a dynamic flow of the body, imagination and mind. Alexander cultivates the ability to do less – teaching how to let go of habits that interfere with our best performance. When unnecessary patterns of movement and mind fall away, the artist opens to discover new dimensions and avenues to her/his work. A change in physicality accesses creative resources which otherwise often remain dormant.

Activities will include examination of anatomical elements, Alexander awareness processes and improvisational explorations.

Improvisational structures will be engaged to amplify the dancers experience of Alexander’s approach to whole body integration, movement, and a well-tuned kinesthetic feedback system. We will also use improvisational structures, fueled by Alexander-based awareness and dynamics, to respond to various poetic elements – imagery, story, and/or environment. During one class, we may visit a Vienna museum for an on-site improvisation. A focus of the workshop will be improvisation as a process for sourcing and developing repeatable material.

Alexander Technique is taught through movement, language, and a unique touch. All students will receive hands-on guidance from Judith.




Judith Grodowitz
Judith Grodowitz has taught Alexander Technique since 1987. Her creative approach to crafting unique classes tailored for the individual or group has brought her teaching engagements in Europe, Asia, the USA, and India. Judith originated leading roles as a member of the Obie-award winning Skyfish Ensemble directed by Lee Nagrin, and has performed with many NYC choreographers. She draws upon over 30 years experience in movement, performing and visual arts, and her certified expertise in the Art of Breathing. Judith specializes in teaching performing artists -- she has equal interest and enthusiasm for working with people of all ages and walks of life. An abiding interest in linking kinesthetic prowess, pleasure, and access to the imagination fuels her work. Current faculty positions: with actors at William Esper Studio, NYC; with vocalists and instrumentalists at Mannes College of Music, NYC. Judith has enjoyed teaching at ImpulsTanz since 1999.