Dale Culliford
Born in New Zealand, Dale came to England to study with Tanya Prochazka and Steven Isserlis. She is currently sub-principal cellist in the Hallé Orchestra and still finds time to pursue a love of chamber music, running her own chamber series in New Mills and Bakewell. Dale qualified as an Alexander Teacher in 1992 and uses this work in both her playing and teaching. She helps her students find a free, relaxed and dynamic style of playing using the mindful awareness that Alexander work can enable. She has run workshops together with Ruth Phillips as part of the Breathing Bow series of events.
Nicholas Trygstad
A native of Minneapolis, USA, Nick came to Manchester to study with Hannah Roberts and Ralph Kirshbaum. On completion of his studies he was offered the position of principal cello of the Hallé Orchestra—a position he has held for over a decade. Alongside his orchestral work he has taught for many years at the Royal Northern College of Music. Over his career Nick has come to understand that the mental side of playing and performance is the most challenging aspect of what we do. Nick has a passion to explore presence through our music making and in our lives.
Patrick Gundry-White
After studying french horn, composition & conducting at the Royal Academy of Music in London, Patrick trained in the Alexander Technique. Through his interest in breathing he trained as a Buteyko Breathing practitioner, qualifying in 2005 and in 2014 he became a member of Staff at Chetham’s School of Music. Patrick has given workshops at the Royal Northern College of Music, the Royal Academy and Royal College in London. He combines his Alexander and Buteyko work to create connections between the breath, mind, body & centred presence with performers of all ages and disciplines.
