Eurythmy

Introduction

• Eurythmy: An expressive movement art founded by Rudolf Steiner and Marie Steiner-von Sivers in the early 20th century.
• Applications: Performance art, education (especially in Waldorf schools), and part of anthroposophic medicine for therapeutic purposes.

Origins

• The word eurythmy derives from Greek, meaning beautiful or harmonious rhythm.
• Conceived in 1911 with the involvement of a young girl Lory Smits and interest from Rudolf Steiner.
• Eurythmy incorporated into Steiner's dramas for the Anthroposophical Society starting in 1912.
• First performances in Switzerland, Netherlands, and Germany.

Philosophical Context

• Eurythmy as an expression of the anthroposophical impulse.
• Described as connecting humans to the supersensible world through art.
• Notable works published include Eurythmy as Visible Speech and Eurythmy as Visible Singing.

Development and Recognition

• Established centers in Stuttgart, Germany, and the Goetheanum.
• Goetheanum ensemble awarded at the Paris Expo of 1937/8.
• Flourished post-World War II with training centers worldwide.

Movement Repertoire

• Focus on gestures related to speech and music, including sounds, rhythms, and soul experiences.
• Emphasis on straight lines, curves, directions in space, and color.
• Costumes and lighting accentuate movements.

Eurythmy with Music

• Expresses melody, harmony, and rhythm.
• Interaction with the orchestra and specific choreography for musical forms.

Eurythmy with Spoken Texts

• Involves the sounds of speech, rhythms, poetic meters, and more.

Performing Art

• Notable ensembles in various countries including Switzerland, Germany, and the USA.
• High school groups also participate in performances.

Pedagogical Eurythmy

• Integral to Waldorf School curriculum since 1919.
• Aims to enhance children's expressive capacities through movement.
• Exercises include geometric figures and dynamic sequences like the Harmonious Eight.

Therapeutic Eurythmy

• Part of anthroposophic medicine, though criticized as unscientific.
• Claims to support health-related life functions and reintegration of body, soul, and spirit.
• Studies suggest it is potentially useful in therapeutic programs but warrant cautious interpretation.

Clarifications

• The British pop group Eurythmics is not connected to Steiner's Eurythmy; rather, Annie Lennox studied Dalcroze Eurhythmics.

Resources

• American Eurythmy School
• Literature by Rudolf Steiner and others on the subject.

The notes cover the origin, philosophy, and applications of Eurythmy, as well as its development, recognition, and contributions to education and therapy.