Help With Smooth Strumming (Mar-19-03)

[moved from old forum:]

The tension is simply a result of lack of perfectly co-ordinated muscle fiber contraction necessary to produce the precisely timed movements of the bones the muscles are moving (to get really microscopic about it).

It is not, in other words, a matter of strength. You could be "Ahnold", and those strong muscles would still have to learn "coordianation with relaxed control" or you would end up with the same lack of smoothness Rich is complaining about.

As with Tom, it is the kind of thing I can only really fix in person.


Best,
Jamie

[moved from old forum:]

Hey Jamie,

COOL! Thanks for the detailed explanation!

"The tension is simply a result of lack of perfectly co-ordinated muscle fiber contraction necessary to produce the precisely timed movements of the bones the muscles are moving (to get really microscopic about it)."

Would this be considered endurence/dexterity or the development of muscle memory? Just trying to get my terminology straight.

Thanks,
Byron Santo
http://www.ByronSanto.Com
http://www.myspace.com/byronsanto

[moved from old forum:]

Jamie,

Your observations and suggestions are very much appreciated. I've reviewed the news letter about Keith's experience with his teacher, Rocco." I believe you are right on with the problem being tension. I think I'm loaded with it. Even though I have been trying to work it out by using, the "Principles" on my own for a year or so, progress has been extremely slow. I cannot find a teacher in the Dallas/Ft. Worth that uses the "Principles" in their teaching practice.

I'm going to work with your suggestions. I sure would like to figure out a way to have you observe my playing and analyze it to the bone.

Thanks,
Richard

[moved from old forum:]

You're welcome Richard. I believe you are in that very difficult state that really does require one on one.

My student Jim who comes in from Chicago recently wrote me about a breakthrough out of this state, and this is after a year of seeing me!

That is why sometimes the best I can do is to make you aware of how intractable the problem is, BUT it can be overcome. Constantly critique and improve your awareness of your body while playing.

Best,
Jamie