A Stanislavski Primer for Musicians: Insights from the Theater Applied to Teaching, Interpretation, and Performance

“The fundamental aim of our art is the creation of the life of a human spirit, and its expression in artistic form. That is why we begin by thinking about the inner side of a role and how to create its spiritual life through the internal process of living a part. It is only when an actor feels that his inner and outer life on the stage is flowing naturally and normally that the deeper sources of his subconscious gently open, and from them come feelings.” ~ Konstantin Stanislavski

Known as the father of "method acting" and modern offshoots, Konstantin Stanislavski (1863-1938) revolutionized acting at the turn of the 20th century, freeing theater from generations of artificiality and stilted mannerism and cultivating the more natural realism exemplified in today’s best stage and screen performances. He spoke eloquently about the challenges actors face—the same challenges that musicians face as we teach, interpret, perform, and prepare fine music. In this 50-minute presentation, Dr. Partain will introduce several key elements of Stanislavski's approach, "translating" for musicians and applying those principles specifically to the musician's art.

Learn more about Portland State University's School of Music & Theater Piano Area.