Which so-called classical instructors do you recommend?

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JillA

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Following on from the thread about good or bad teaching, tell us about the instructors who have helped you ride better? Who has worked with you to get a softer contact/better seat/more relaxed and responsive horse? And which area do they cover, for those of us who are seeking that sort of improvement. Otherwise it is a lottery IMO.
 
Not being facetious here, but I use the books of de la Gueriniere and the Duke of Newcastle, William Cavendish. These are the original classical masters; most modern "classical" instructors are making it up as they go along.
 
I used a Philippe Karl trained coach who's based in Northampton. After months of BHS type training it was a real eye opener. I still use my original instructor and we've come to a sort of understanding about hands and contact. Must go back to PK trainer though to learn how to do the in hand exercises.
 
Andrew Day based in Nottingham is excellent. I am lucky enough to be just down the road from http://www.ttttrust.com/instructors.asp

For anyone wanting to get their nose in a book, this one explains the development of the various training methods very well -
The Complete Training of Horse and Rider - Alois Podhajsky
 
Becky at Ashen equestrian is wonderful, classically trained by modern biomechanics knowledge http://ashenec.co.uk

Also Dressage Formula by Erik Herbermann is my one desert island book on classical riding. simple language and beautifully written
 
JillA said:
Following on from the thread about good or bad teaching, tell us about the instructors who have helped you ride better? Who has worked with you to get a softer contact/better seat/more relaxed and responsive horse?
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I don't see why this has to be exclusive to being a "classical" instructor? Mine would definitely not refer to herself as "classical" but my lessons are all about softer contact, recognising the instant the horse should be rewarded (because I am not quick enough), developing feel, improving my seat and making it more independent. Horse can be a little firecracker, super sharp and very silly when he is in that mood, so we've spent a long time working out how best to deal with him on those days, how best to warm up so he doesn't over-react, how to calm him down, get him listening, calm him down. In contrast to the "classical" people I've been to, she is much firmer on the horse. There is no unkindness at all, but things are black and white in regards to what is expected. At the same time, she very much expects me to do things correctly all of the time (I know everyone makes mistakes!) to ensure the horse is given the best chance to succeed.

I think all of those are things you should expect from any "good" instructor, "classical" or otherwise.
 
I started classical lessons last year with Liz Holmes - brilliant instructor. Completely different from any lessons I'd had before as if focused solely on my aids/seat/posture/balance.

Very difficult - I find it mentally tiring but really rewarding!
 
I have lessons with Jane Bartle Wilson, she is great, I always go away with work that I can measure and replicate and my horse goes tonnes better after a lesson. I am also reading an old book called Thinking Riding by Molly Sivewright which is really interesting.
 
Another vote for Anna Viberg. I used to have lessons from her and she was fab. If I were in the market for lessons at the moment I'd definitely be giving her a call.
 
Classical to me is someone who isn't a BHS AI !!! Sorry if thats too blunt for some but tough - I don't like the way the BHS trains their teachers, and it takes a seriously well read, and experienced person to over come the strictures of the BHS requested guidelines when they're being trained or to go their own way after they have their qualifications.

I highly recommend Yvonne Brookes - amazing teaching and a lovely rider who covers North Yorks http://www.ridingwithreason.com and Becky Holden if you are lucky enough to get hold of her!
 
Jingleballs said:
I started classical lessons last year with Liz Holmes - brilliant instructor. Completely different from any lessons I'd had before as if focused solely on my aids/seat/posture/balance.

Very difficult - I find it mentally tiring but really rewarding!
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Yep i have regular lessons from Liz and agree she's great, extremely knowledgable and eyes like a hawk :-)
 
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