Alexander Technique Center Seattle (ATCS)
ATCS is approved by AmSAT (American Society for the Alexander Technique) and adheres to standards consistent with those set by STAT (Society for the Alexander Technique) in the U.K. and all affiliated Societies. Students who complete the course are eligible for certification and membership in AmSAT. AmSAT has very rigorous standards for course approval, as well as for certification of AmSAT teachers.
Philosophy of the Course
The intention of this course is to train highly skilled, confident and effective Teachers of the Alexander Technique, with a deep knowledge of how to convey principles and refined use with hands-on skills and verbal clarity.
Individual development and creativity is encouraged within the outline of attending to each trainee's conscious choice in response to stimuli.
Training is composed of practical work, with specific attention to the individual's use of entire self, as well as a deep investigation of the principles of the Alexander Technique. There will also be study of neuroscience, anatomy, and the history and writings of the Alexander Technique. F.M. Alexander's books will be thoroughly discussed, as well as books by Master Alexander Teachers.
Structure of the Course
Refined use of the entire self in daily activity, and in the specific activity of teaching the Alexander Technique, is the primary intention of the course. Trainees receive a private lesson weekly, as well as many individual turns in the course of each training day. Learning as a dynamic group is also essential in the training.
We will examine various procedures that are essential to good use daily: monkey, chair work, table work, hands on the back of the chair, whispered ah are just a few examples. We will also spend time daily reading and discussing F.M. Alexander's books, as well as other writings by Alexander Teachers, neuroscience, anatomy and related writings for 30-45 minutes.
Field trips to bring Alexander principles into activity will also comprise a portion of the course.
Guidance in business and practice development will be covered thoroughly in the third year of training. An independent study project, to be completed outside of training hours, is an expected commitment for trainees.
Schedule
The course runs 34 weeks per year, Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30am until 12:30pm
Tuition
Course fees are currently $6500 per year, $2167 per term (three terms per year).
A non-refundable deposit of $300 will secure space on the course.
Although every effort will be made to keep fees at this level, fees may have to rise in response to costs for running the course.
Books are estimated at $200 per year of training.
Requirements for entry to the course
- A minimum of 30 lessons with an AmSAT certified teacher
- Letter of recommendation from applicant's primary teacher
- Two lessons with the Director, as well as an interview
- At least two visits to the course.