From gang@urim.org.il Fri Feb 17 10:11:42 2012
Subject:Re: organ playing posture

I found an interesting article - the relevant information to this thread is reproduced below, while the entire article may be of interest to many: http://www.musicianshealth.com/Pianostress.html

happy and healthy playing y'all

Ron

Adjustable stools are an absolute necessity.
Stool height should be adjusted so that the thigh slopes slightly down to the knee, so that lower back lordosis in maintained and shoulders tend to sit back as part of a normal spinal curve
The forearm should be at a height (usually level with the keyboard) so that the wrist can operate in its middle range of movement, where the tendons can travel in a more or less direct line to the fingers. This position can vary according to individual physiognomy (e.g. the extensor/flexor balance in the forearm).
Note: It is frequently impossible to get both the thigh slope and the forearm height correct, as only the seat is adjustable and not the keyboard height. This can be a big problem and many pianists have to adopt a compromise position. Ideally the piano should be able to be raised and the pedals lowered (to avoid extreme extension at the ankle) to accommodate tall pianists.
Correct posture should make it possible to avoid extreme angles in any joint - and to play in the central range of movement.

--- In CloneWheel@yahoogroups.com, Barry wrote:
>
> I've noticed sometimes my back and neck get sore after/while playing the
> organ.