It’s part two of our chat with West End Musical Theatre performer, lead singer of a London Big Band, and Clinical Osteopath, Jennie Morton. Today Alexa and Jennie will be picking up right where they left off talking about the importance of teachers finding their neutral for their own postural health in the teaching room.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Prioritising neutral posture is pivotal for vocal health. This proactive approach, avoiding extremes and unnecessary tension, prevents issues like deviated larynx. Examples of poor posture consequences highlight its significance, emphasising the need for a balanced and mindful alignment.
- Poor posture yields tangible consequences like deviated larynx and muscle imbalances. Practical examples, such as uneven piano placement or specific mic-handling, lead to muscle strain and vocal challenges.
- Delving into posture’s intricate link with vocal well-being, Jennie illuminates the stomatognathic system and vocal muscles’ role in balance. Practical tips, including mindful sitting and ribcage alignment, emphasise how posture directly influences and contributes to overall vocal health.
- Mindful alignment is a potent tool for communication, you should embrace vulnerability. It fosters authenticity, emphasising a deeper understanding of one’s body for improved vocal health and heightened communication proficiency.
BEST MOMENTS
‘The body never lies, you know, you can tell it perfectly’
‘Symptoms in the body are like a course correct, the body’s going, you’ve deviated from your path, get back, get back’
‘Posture is body language. In every moment, you are speaking to people, even if you haven’t opened your mouth’
‘Taking care of you is an act of generosity to everyone else’
EPISODE RESOURCES
Guest Website:
Relevant Links & Mentions:
- Singing Teachers Talk Podcast: Ep.149 Part One: Finding the Best Posture and Alignment for Singing with Jennie Morton
- Singing Teachers Talk Podcast: Ep.97 Elevate Your Musical Performance Through Anatomical Efficiency with Jennie Morton
- Singing Teachers Talk Podcast: Ep.40 Teaching Singing to Dancers with Jennie Morton
- Chris Johnson: chrisjohnsonvocalcoach.com
- Chris Johnson’s Teach Voice: teachvoice.com
ABOUT THE GUEST
After a long performing career as a Ballet dancer, West End Musical Theatre performer, and lead singer of a London Big Band, Jennie is now a Clinical Osteopath specialising in the field of Performing Arts Medicine. She provides treatment for musculoskeletal, neurobiological, and psycho-physiological issues from her base in Los Angeles. She also works as a Performance Coach for singers and actors, focusing on anatomical efficiency, embodiment of artistry, movement education, and rehabilitation from vocal injury. Jennie co-created the MSc in Performing Arts Medicine at University College, London, and lectures internationally to artists, arts educators, and healthcare professionals on the subject of performance-related injuries. She is the author of three books: The Authentic Performer: Wearing A Mask And The Effect On Health; The Embodied Dancer: A Guide To Optimal Performance; and Dancing Longer, Dancing Stronger. Her website www.jenniemorton.com contains many of her published articles and educational resources, as well as links to her online courses on a range of health topics.
