About Philip Pawley

Philip Pawley in the Lakes in 2006

Philip Pawley studied Mathematical Physics at the University of Sussex, 1971-1974.

Disappointed that Physics did not supply “The Answer to Life, the Universe and Everything” (as Douglas Adams was later to put it) he read a large portion of the works of CG Jung.

This was while still supposedly studying Mathematical Physics.

Failed to shut his teacher up

While still searching, he took up the piano. It was his piano teacher who was responsible for introducing him to the Alexander Technique. After being repeatedly told to go for Alexander lessons, he finally went — but only so he could shut his piano teacher up by saying “I tried it and it was rubbish”. At the end of his first, entrancing, Alexander lesson he was surprised when his Alexander teacher asked him “Do you want to continue?” There was only one possible answer to that: “Yes, of course I want to continue”.

Forty lessons later, in January 1978, he began his 3-year training to become an Alexander Technique teacher. Graduating in December 1980, he first came to Liverpool because members of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra needed an Alexander teacher. Broadening out his practice, he has taught in Liverpool ever since.

Kept on his toes

Philip is married to a stunning redhead from Blackburn. Anna, by the way, was also a very reluctant Alexander pupil. Anna is a very intuitive Homeopath. Their two lovely daughters, Emma and Sarah, seem likely also to choose people-nurturing professions.

Not everything: just Life

While the Alexander technique does not provide the answer to the Universe and Everything it does provide a stunning solution to many of the thornier questions of life. What more productive way to earn a living than teach it? Answers on a postcard to Philip Pawley, 37 Hope Street, Liverpool L1 9EA — or you can call him on 0151 708 6172.