Miguel de Lancastre e Tavora

Miguel de Lancastre e Tavora was a master rider, trainer, and instructor. His genuine love and care for the well-being of horses comes through on every page of his magnum opus: Dressage Principles and Techniques. His kind, calm, and methodical approach is laid out in a progressive sequence that adheres strictly to the principles of the FEI.

“In this book, I will explain the principles which are the objectives of equitation.... Correct principles are governed by nature and logic and proven through practice. I show how to use the aids and gymnastic exercises to achieve goals. Objectivity, simplicity and clarity of all explanations is my first priority.  “My philosophy is that the horse's physical and mental development, obtained through gradual, progressive, logical, and systematic gymnastic work, he will do all work with ease because he feels comfortable. He will look as if he is acting on his own accord, and enjoying it.” - Miguel Tavora

Miguel Tavora rode with Nuno Oliveira from the age of eight years until he was eighteen. After his military training, he was appointed as Chief Instructor and Director of Equestrian Teaching of the Mafra School in Portugal. Miguel migrated to Australia, where he and his wife Dianne ran their equestrian center. He trained numerous horses and riders in Australia, Portugal, and the USA to FEI level. Many of his students competed successfully at Grand Prix Level, proving that correct training can produce winners.