The Art of Classical Horsemanship [Hardcover]

Egon von Neindorff (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 15, 2009

Egon von Neindorff dedicated his life to the knowledge and promotion of the classical art of riding. He never wanted to be a reformist but purely an interpreter. He truly understood the philosophy of classical riding and was therefore able to teach his numerous national and international students to develop their own style. The essence of classical dressage requires a deep affection for the horse as well as understanding, sensitivity, humility, and devotion. In this book, von Neindorff illustrates in more than 30 chapters his profound understanding of the natural training of horses. It encompasses a body of knowledge that was previously only taught at his riding establishment in Karlsruhe.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Egon von Neindorff was a competitive dressage rider through the 1950s, after which he taught many international students until his death in 2004.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 272 pages
• Publisher: Cadmos Books (June 15, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 3861279193
• ISBN-13: 978-3861279198
• Product Dimensions: 10.8 x 9.7 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.7 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #789,545 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

26 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Egon von Neindorff~ Art of Classical Horsemanship, July 19, 2009

By 

Kay K. (Oklahoma, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Art of Classical Horsemanship (Hardcover)

I have had the pleasure and priviledge of being at Egon von Neindorff's Classical School on many occasions, and have studied with his protoge', Melissa Simms, since 1992. This wonderful book is the culmination of Herr von Neindorff's efforts to produce the original in German, and Melissa's efforts to do the translation. It is an exquisite collection of photographs, memoires, and instruction from von Neindorff that evokes many personal memories of a treasured and special period of my own riding education. Over 50 years ago, von Neindorff made a choice to turn away from the competition arena (where he had enjoyed much success and many victories) to develop his school of Classical Horsemanship in Karlsruhe, Germany. Pattered after the principles and practices of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, Austria, von Neindorff's primary focus was on the development of the rider, instilling in them a correct and independent seat that minimized any interference with the horse, thereby allowing, not forcing, the horses to perform at their highest level. To look through the photographs brings back all the memories of being at the School, the look of the horses, the riders, and especially the 'feel' of the atmosphere and attitude which placed the primary emphasis on the well being of the horses. All training sessions were quiet, focused and nurturing for the horses, with even the most intense and difficult work being done calmly and with love of the horse evident. I miss the School, I miss Herr von Neindorff and his dedication to the 'right way, and am grateful that this book came into production and finally translated. It will help to keep his dream and love of the horse alive. I highly recommend this book, so that you may share in this dream as well ~ you will not be disappointed.

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Read while riding!, December 5, 2009

By 

J. B. Russell "horse lover" (No.CA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Art of Classical Horsemanship (Hardcover)

I read this book at the same time I rode my young horse (not literally of course). What it did was put me in the proper frame of mind while riding for the words in the book were in my head! This caused me to ride with more compassion be more effective and affective with my aides and consequently have a better ride than without having read it. I will refer to it again and again for this reason alone. This man and his translator are in an equine state of mind which has very little to do with the 21st century. It is slow, patient and in line with how to communicate with the horse on its terms, not on our terms. It is classical and belongs to a time when relating to horses didn't conflict with the fast pace of our current lifestyles. Above all it emphasizes patience and giving the horse time to learn how to carry a rider properly in its body and in its mind. The outcome of course is creating a riding horse who is a life partner, not just a show horse. The benefit is that you can still show this horse into old age, without the resistance problems and possible injuries caused by improper training! Highly recommended for those who want to be lifelong riders be it dressage or otherwise.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must have for every horse lover, November 3, 2009

By 

Flor Lozano-Byrne "Flor Lozano-Byrne" (Seattle, WA United States) - See all my reviews
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Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Art of Classical Horsemanship (Hardcover)

Having been a student of Egon Von Neindorff at the Reitinstitut in Karlsruhe, I am enormously pleased to see this book published. I truly appreciate the efforts of all the people who worked on the publication of this wonderful book. It explains the philosophy and teachings of one of the last great horsemanship masters of our times.

I just started reading this book and I feel greatly inspired in my riding. It has many pictures of correct riding and beautiful illustrations. Reading this book reminds me of his lessons at the Reitinstitut and I am glad to know that this knowledge "treasure" is now available to a wide audience of readers.