Yoga in the Music Studio

Yoga in the Music Studio brings the popular and beneficial practice of yoga to music teachers and students of all instruments and ages, from preschoolers to senior adults and all those in-between. Expert on mind-body techniques Lesley S. McAllister provides a unique opportunity for all to improve their musical craft, enabling teachers to help their students concentrate, listen more attentively, relax, and play their best - whether before a performance or just during lessons - all through the practice of yoga.

Many music teachers know that yoga postures and breathing practices can help musicians achieve peak performance, prevent injury, and relieve pain, yet surprisingly few are themselves familiar with these techniques or know how to introduce them to their students. McAllister welcomes the music teacher into the philosophy and history of yoga, introducing them to the research behind yoga's physical and emotional benefits. Step-by-step illustrations of practical stretches and useful poses then guide the teacher to the yoga practices that suit their individual needs and those of their students. An accessible and comprehensive yoga curriculum, Yoga in the Music Studio will help to improve students' musicianship, while contributing to their lifelong health and wellness.

Lesley S. McAllister is Associate Professor of Piano and Director of Piano Pedagogy at Baylor University. She is the author of The Balanced Musician: Integrating Mind and Body for Peak Performance, and has published in Clavier Companion, Piano Pedagogy Forum, the MTNA E-Journal, and American Music Teacher.

Preface
Acknowledgments

Chapter One: Starting a Practice
Chapter Two: Connecting the Body and Mind
Chapter Three: Healing the Body and Mind: A Research-Based Perspective on the Physical, Emotional, and Cognitive Benefits of Yoga
Chapter Four: Establishing a Foundation: Early Childhood Music and Yoga
Chapter Five: Developing Resilience, Awareness, and Compassion: Yoga for the Adolescent Student
Chapter Six: Gaining Courage and Trust: Yoga for the Advanced and Professional Musician
Chapter Seven: Preserving the Body and Mind: Yoga and Music for Seniors

Appendices
Index