The words 'balance' and 'poise' are key words in the use of the body. It is vital to understand the importance of the 'Primary Control' and to realise how, by thinking of the balance of the head on the top of the spine and by keeping the head and neck free while directing the head 'forward and up', the body will more readily do what is asked of it in the most efficient way. In sitting, the back must be lengthening and not shortening or pulled in, particularly in the lumbar region. Nowadays new and improved accessories have been designed to ease the playing of certain instruments. An adjustable support has now been devised which attaches to the bottom of the instrument and rests on the left thigh of the player, thereby offering a more balanced way to sit with both feet on the floor.
Violinists have a variety of shoulder and chin rests from which to choose.
For those with long necks the building up of the chin rest is a good idea, as then the left arm does not have to be raised so high to play. These and other new ideas for various instruments are continually being invented-chiefly because of the awareness brought about by teachers of the Alexander Technique. But there can also be an emotional response which is a kind of fear-the 'fight or flight' response. He or she needs a strong nervous system to cope with the demands of playing before others. This heightens awareness and in small doses adrenalin is positively favourable for playing well.