Classical Dressage with Peter Maddison Greenwell
Experience the expertise of Peter Maddison-Greenwell, an internationally acclaimed Classical Dressage Trainer renowned for his mastery of the Spanish Horse and dedication to the art of effortless riding. Join Peter for transformative lessons that blend tradition with modern techniques, perfect for riders of all levels seeking to enhance their skills.
Meet Peter Maddison-Greenwell
Peter Maddison-Greenwell is a distinguished figure in the equestrian world, celebrated for his deep knowledge and passion for the Spanish Horse. With over 25 years of international teaching experience and a background enriched by the principles of the "Old Masters," Peter has earned a reputation as one of the leading authorities on Classical Dressage. His innovative shows and clinics have captivated audiences globally, and his approachable teaching style continues to inspire riders at all levels.
We are excited to offer a series of additional workshops and opportunities to complement the Peter Maddison-Greenwell Classical Dressage Clinic on the 21st and 22nd of September at Bigland Hall. These sessions have been carefully designed to enhance your learning experience, deepen your understanding of Classical Dressage, and provide tools that will support your progress both in and out of the saddle.
Workshops
Goal Setting, Journaling, and Coaching Session with Zara Myers – Saturday at 9am
What to Expect:
This session will focus on how to set meaningful goals for your riding journey and use journaling to track your progress and stay focused. Led by Zara Myers, CEO and lead coach at Harness Change, this workshop is designed to help you think critically about your riding ambitions and put a clear plan in place for achieving them. By setting specific, measurable goals, you'll be able to take a more structured approach to your lessons and riding practice.
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Benefits:
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Clarity and Focus: Goal setting will give you a clear direction, helping you understand what you want to achieve in Classical Dressage and how to reach those milestones.
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Enhanced Learning: Journaling provides a space to reflect on your lessons, track progress, and document key insights—allowing you to fully absorb Peter Maddison-Greenwell’s teachings.
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Accountability: By committing your goals to paper, you’ll be more motivated to stay on track and make consistent improvements.
This session will provide the tools to get the most out of Peter’s clinic and beyond, giving you a framework for continued growth.
Off-the-Horse Exercises Workshop with Sheelagh and Zara Myers – Saturday 3pm
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What to Expect:
Position and balance are essential components of Classical Dressage, and this workshop will focus on off-the-horse exercises to improve both. Led by Sheelagh Myers, founder of Bigland Hall, and Zara Myers, this session will cover the theory behind the classical dressage seat and position, and practical exercises that you can incorporate into your daily routine. You'll learn how to engage the right muscles for a balanced, effective seat that aligns with classical principles.
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Benefits:
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Improved Riding Posture: By learning the mechanics of balance and position, you’ll develop a deeper awareness of how your body influences the horse's movement.
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Increased Core Strength: Off-the-horse exercises focus on building the core muscles necessary for a steady and balanced seat, which is key to achieving harmony between horse and rider.
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Better Symmetry: This workshop will help you correct imbalances that may be affecting your riding and ensure that you’re sitting evenly in the saddle, creating a smoother connection with your horse.
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A better seat and balanced position will allow you to fully embrace the subtleties of Classical Dressage, making advanced movements like piaffe and passage more accessible.
Yoga for Horse Riders with Gabrielle Rowley – Sunday at 3pm
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What to Expect:
This session, led by Gabrielle Rowley, is specifically tailored for riders and focuses on improving flexibility, core strength, and mental focus—critical elements for any equestrian. Yoga can help riders develop the physical and mental discipline required for Classical Dressage, promoting relaxation and balance in the saddle.
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Benefits:
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Flexibility: Stretching and yoga exercises will improve your overall range of motion, allowing you to move more fluidly with your horse.
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Core Strength: A strong core is essential for maintaining balance and posture while riding. Yoga strengthens these muscles, making it easier to maintain a stable and light seat.
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Mental Focus and Relaxation: Riding can be mentally demanding, and yoga teaches techniques for calming the mind and staying focused under pressure—essential skills for dressage riders who need to communicate effectively with their horses.
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Yoga complements Classical Dressage by fostering the calm, focused mindset and physical control needed to communicate more subtly and effectively with your horse.
Evening Meal with Peter Maddison-Greenwell & Open Q&A Session – Saturday Evening
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What to Expect:
This is a unique opportunity to engage with Peter Maddison-Greenwell in a relaxed setting, over an evening meal. Peter will be available for an open Q&A session, where you can ask him anything about Classical Dressage, his experiences, or specific training challenges. The evening promises to be an invaluable chance to gain deeper insights from one of the foremost experts in the field.
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Benefits:
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Direct Access to Expertise: This informal setting allows you to ask questions that may not have been addressed during the clinic, giving you the opportunity to dig deeper into Classical Dressage theory and practice.
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Broadened Perspectives: Hearing Peter’s responses to questions from other riders will expand your understanding of different training methods and challenges.
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Inspiration: Peter’s stories and experiences from a lifetime in the world of Classical Dressage will motivate you to continue striving for excellence in your riding.
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This evening session will offer a relaxed yet enriching way to learn from Peter and connect with fellow participants, fostering a sense of community and shared passion.
About Peter Maddison Greenwell
Peter Maddison-Greenwell has made a significant impact in the world of equestrian arts, particularly through his dedication to promoting the Spanish Horse in the UK and internationally. His journey began as a committee member of the British Association of the Purebred Spanish Horse (BAPSH), where he started to advocate for the Spanish Horse. By 1988, alongside Danielle, under the name El Caballo de España, he began performing at county shows and historic venues, quickly becoming one of the leading equestrian attractions in the country.
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The success of these shows led to sponsorship and support from major companies like San Miguel, Iberia Airways, and Compaq Computers. Peter's productions have graced prominent venues such as Olympia, NEC, and Alexandra Palace. Concurrently, he was building his reputation as a horse trainer and teacher, a journey that began at the age of 14 when he rode for the Rothschilds and continued through his school and college years.
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Peter and Danielle's shared passion for horses, particularly the Spanish Horse and its history, was further nurtured by a long friendship with Sylvia Stanier. She introduced them to notable figures in the equestrian world, including Nuno Oliviera, and facilitated their invitation to perform in Central London with their horses kept at The Royal Mews.
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Throughout his 16-year tenure on the BAPSH committee, including seven years as Vice Chairman and Chairman, Peter became a respected judge at various shows, including the Royal Windsor Horse Show and the GBPRE breed show. His expertise culminated in the 2006 publication of his book, "Living and Working with the Horse of Spain," which was well-received in England, America, and Spain.
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A major milestone for El Caballo de España came in 1994 with their performance at Camden's Roundhouse in London, attracting notable figures such as Princess Margaret. This marked the beginning of a new genre in equestrian entertainment, leading to the establishment of The First Equestrian Theatre. Peter's shows, such as The Horse of Spain and The Royal Horse of England, have captivated audiences and solidified his status as an innovative show creator.
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International recognition followed, with Peter being invited to teach and perform in countries like America, Germany, Dubai, and Spain. His performances and teaching sessions have been well-received, earning him a reputation as an International Classical Dressage Trainer. His expertise has been sought by renowned figures and prestigious events, and he has shared stages with prominent equestrians like Alvaro Domecq.
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Despite his accolades, Peter remains humble and approachable, adhering to the philosophy of leaving one's ego at the gate when riding. His dedication to the principles of the "Old Masters" and his ability to communicate the subtleties of classical riding have made him a respected figure among riders and trainers alike. His clinics, lecture demonstrations, and hands-on training sessions emphasize light hands, still legs, and the appearance of effortless movement in the horse, making complex equestrian skills accessible and achievable for riders of all levels.