Gifts to Effortless Mastery Institute contribute to...
We believe musical mastery is available to everyone. The Effortless Mastery Institute helps students transcend obstacles so that they can achieve mastery and express their true voice. Through Effortless Mastery Berklee students can reclaim their inner voice and their connection to music by learning how to overcome physical and mental obstacles that keep them from performing at their highest levels. There can be many blocks between the musician and the music. Sometimes the pain is physical, often it’s mental, emotional, or even spiritual, such as an unloving attitude towards one’s self. The EMI helps clear these blocks by using somatic and mindful approaches, including the principles put forth in the book Effortless Mastery by Kenny Werner, the institute's artistic director. The institute emphasizes complete focus when practicing; total liberation in performing; full use of body, mind, and soul; and reclaiming your love and inner connection to your music. The institute offers classes in Effortless Mastery Technique, Alexander Technique, body mapping, tai chi, and yoga.
Testimonials
"This class has had a profound impact on my playing and on my music but more importantly it has had such a positive impact on every aspect of my life and how I'm carrying myself in the world"
- Trevin (Banjo player, Nebraska)
"I'd had those moments when my cello seemed to play itself while I effortlessly conversed with other musicians. The only predictable thing about those moments is that the more I hope for them the less likely they are to arrive. There is no quick fix, but now I'm cultivating a different approach. Through Kenny's beautiful, simple method—and the patience and support he embodies—I'm learning to get the doubting mediator out of the way of the master musician and let her soar."
- Catherine (Cellist, educator, Boston)
"I've been committing to the exercises pretty much daily and I am amazed with the results! Many of the things you've shown me also aligned to my spiritual path in a beautiful way, even though it's probably quite different from yours."
-Andrew (Guitarist, Malaysia)
