Category: Focal Dystonia
David Leisner: Playing with Ease, Composition and the Joy of Collaboration
David Leisner discusses Playing with Ease, his gradual return from dystonia, composing, Schubert arrangements and chamber music. The final reflection in this interview series.
David Leisner: Music beyond Fingers and Concerts
David Leisner discusses his guitar, interpretation, neglected repertoire, new music and contact with audiences. A wider musical perspective for readers living with focal dystonia.
David Leisner: A Broader Musical Life, Practice and the Journey out of Dystonia
David Leisner connects his experience of focal dystonia with practice, competitions, composition and collaboration. A broader view of musical life and education.
David Leisner: What Lies within Bach, Ginastera, Villa-Lobos and Mertz
David Leisner explores Bach, Ginastera, Villa-Lobos and Mertz. An invitation to musical listening, interpretation and discovery beyond the limits of finger technique.
David Leisner: The Person First, the Guitar Second
David Leisner discusses Playing with Ease, supporting the guitar, movement, breathing and teaching. A reflection on healthier playing without promises of a fixed recovery timetable.
David Leisner on Focal Dystonia: The First Discovery Is Not the End of the Journey
David Leisner describes his long return from focal dystonia and the search for freer movement. The article distinguishes his personal experience from general treatment advice.
David Leisner: Returning after Dystonia, Creativity and Support in Life
David Leisner discusses returning after focal dystonia, composing, chamber music and the support of his husband. A reflection on recovery within a wider musical and personal life.
David Leisner: A Personal Musical Voice, Stage Fright and Trust
The performer's personality, Schubert's arrangements and stage fright in an interview with Benjamin Tinto. David Leisner on confidence in preparation, attention on stage and music as a refuge in life.
David Leisner: Connecting the Body, Technique and the Meaning of a Piece
David Leisner explains the interplay of fine and larger movements, the approach to teaching and the alternation of a musical ensemble with analysis. Stimuli for exercises and questions important in focal dystonia.
David Leisner: Less Control, More Music
An interview with Rosie Bennet about letting go of unnecessary control, musical phrasing and observation without self-judgment. The first part of a series about David Leisner and his broader perspective on gaming.