Tip 1: Keep your neck aligned with your back (avoid forward neck!)

What does this mean?

Your neck should be kept in line with your spine, with your ears above your shoulders (like the diagram on the left). As you read the score, you should maintain this position, instead of slouching forward, jutting your chin out, and forcing your head forward, even if this feels more natural to you. To look at different parts of the score, move your eyes instead of your neck.

Why is this important?

An aligned neck is the foundation of good posture. Likewise, a forward neck is the precursor to a myriad of other problems. The more forward your head is, the more weight your neck has to support. This causes a great deal of strain in your neck and shoulders, while your upper back will round to compensate for the added weight. More aches and pain follow and you might even end up looking like the Hunchback of Notre Dame.

What can I do?

To identify if you have a forward neck, you can do this simple exercise. Stand with your lower back and the back of your feet touching a wall. If the back your head does not touch the wall, it’s likely that you have forward neck.

To correct your posture, adjust your head so that the back of your head touches the wall. Be sure to lengthen your spine instead of simply tilting your head backwards. You may have to squeeze your shoulder blades together. Now, keep this position for a minute. Gradually increase the time in which you stay at this position. Remember this position and be sure to adopt it as you play the piano.