Historical and classical dressage lessons
My goal in during historical dressage can be divided into three components:
- I want to achieve biomechanically healthy movements. That is to say, a high degree of collection and self-carriage without losing suppleness. As a result this way of riding ensures that the horse can carry us optimally. Moreover it also helps to calm down both rider and horse. This is because collected exercises are a constructive outlet for tension and anxiety. Namely, the horse does not have keep the energy bottled up or run away out of control, but they can still move in a productive manner.
- To ride as much as possible from the seat. In other words, to not be dependent on significant rein aids or driving leg aids. In essence I want to keep them as small as possible. As a consequence, the horse also does not receive contrary signals. Moreover it also makes sure that we cause no or minimal discomfort in the mouth or on the head.
- To maintain motivation and enjoyment of the horse. For example by rewarding them often and to give enough breaks. Also I don't want to keep asking or to add pressure, when the horse has a hard time mentally or physically. As a result, through this method horses become calmer, and more eager to work with us.
History of dressage
To help us achieve these goals we can learn much from the history of dressage. For example this was called 'sprezzatura' in the Italian school of the 16th century. This meant that the riding should look like it was done without much effort, as if it was easy. Thus, it was important that aids of the rider (such as rein and leg aids) were invisible to spectators. However luckily this way of riding is still popular today. Therefore I like to use historical exercises and riding patterns, because these are well suited for this purpose.
I like to help any rider to develop their skills. Whether that is in riding, work on the ground, or horsemanship. Anybody is welcome, regardless of your or your horses' current level, the breed of your horse, or ambitions. In my lessons I try to convey the knowledge of the past and current insights in an understandable and clear way. More information about me and my horse can be found on this page.
Lessons with your horse
A single lesson with your own horse (45 min.) costs €50, excluding travel expenses from Maastricht, the Netherlands*. Booking a longer lesson is also possible. My travel expenses are as follows:
- Less than 10km from Maastricht: none
- 10-30km from Maastricht: €5
- 30-60km from Maastricht: €15
- 60-100km from Maastricht: €25
- More than 100km from Maastricht: please contact me
* Except on existing routes, occasionally from Nijmegen (NL).
Online lessons
It's also possible to book online lessons. This can be done in multiple ways, for example:
- Live instructions during your riding session, just like a lesson in person
- Watching riding videos afterwards, I'll give you my analysis, and practical instruction how to improve your riding
- Theory lessons where you can decide the topic
* Requires 1) smartphone for filming, 2) wireless earbuds or a second smartphone for the sound, and 3) either internet on the smartphone(s) or WiFi in the riding arena
© Amanda Melchior
Lessons with my horse
My lusitano Caloroso is also available for lessons. This is a unique opportunity to learn more about the seat, high school movements (such as piaffe, terre-a-terre, levade), and collection. This experience can then be later applied to your own horse. The lesson can be adapted to your individual goals and level, for example to learn to ride side-movements better. An individual lesson with my horse (45 min.) costs €80. Because Caloroso is trained with subtitle (seat) aids, I do ask a certain level of riding experience. This will take place near Maastricht. Please contact me for more information.
Clinics and lesson days
It's also possible to book a lesson day on your stable or a clinic. For more information and to discuss the specifics please contact me through the email address or telephone number below.