BHS Powys Region Newsletter January 2007 edition
Classical Dressage
Interview with Jane Lloyd Francis (Carreg Dressage Centre, Powys)
Carreg Dressage is an internationally known dressage centre, when was it set up, what does the centre aim to do and why?
Established in 1990, Carreg Dressage has a known reputation for producing forward, light and balanced horses with expressive movement.
We aim to create an environment that inspires a confidence and harmony for both horse and rider.
For those of us who don’t know – what is the difference between classical dressage and other forms. Why do you choose to specialise in this type?
In truth, there should be no difference between classical dressage and any other method of dressage. Dressage is the French word for training and as such should refer the proper education of any horse for any discipline rather than being synonymous with competition. Classical, can be interpreted as calling on the knowledge of the great masters whose books contain enormous knowledge and methods that have stood the tests of time.
Our interpretation is that the training should never compromise the integrity of the horse, that the training must improve the way of going and at all times to be striving for lightness and self carriage.
What does your centre offer its customers?
At Carreg Dressage we prioritise the needs of the horse. With 25 years of experience training all types and breeds of horse at all levels there is the possibility of drawing on a high level of expertise. We are committed to providing a tailored one to one approach within top class facilities.
Carreg Dressage is closely involved in a number of arts projects, how do art and equine principles marry – how does this work?
Classical Riding, at its best, can be considered as an art form. This was certainly the view of the great master Nuno Oliveira with whom Georges Dewez trained. Many of the older generation in Portugal will still ride for the pleasure of creating an increasingly subtle dialogue between horse and rider with never a thought of competition. In our displays we seek to demonstrate the commonalities between the arts and horsemanship.
Much of the terminology for ballet originates from equine terminology for example, pirouette and pas de deux to site just two.
It is inspiring working with other artists and much of the discipline required to train is common to all.
Carreg Dressage is home to the award winning Equilibre Horse Theatre, can you give us some more information about this company?
Equilibre Horse Theatre is now in retirement—see www.equilibre.co.uk for previous work. We do still undertake collaborations with other artists, on smaller projects working with the same influences. Recently we performed on the Wales/ England border as part of a cultural geography project. This involved a costumed display to music with dancers and some equine sculpture.
As an internationally recognised dressage centre what advice would you offer people wanting to specialise in classical dressage?
To find a trainer that you really respect and train only with that person.
Watch great riders, like for instance Hubertus Schmidt, who rode in the last Olympic Games and has trained many grand prix horses.
Read what the great masters wrote.
Finally, to accept that really learning to ride properly takes more than one lifetime!