10 Tips to Overcome Stage Fright!!
Performance is such an essential part of music; however, for some people, it can be the most frightening experience. We’ve got some good news for you; you’re not alone. Stage fright is very common, and we’ve got some practical tips for you (and your students) to help build confidence in performance.
1. Prepare
Preparing before a performance is vital in fighting your stage fright. Rehearse and rehearse and rehearse until you can play your piece in your sleep! Once you know your piece inside-out, you’ll be much more confident that you can perform it.
2. Imagine the Performance
To help reduce your anxiety, you can do a mental rehearsal. Before stepping onto the stage, close your eyes and visualise yourself performing flawlessly. Imagine the applause and the positive feedback from the audience. This technique can help to boost your confidence and calm your nerves.
3. Control Your Breathing
Some controlled breathing techniques may be helpful to regulate your heart rate and further reduce any anxiety you may have. Try some deep breathing exercises before walking on stage. Inhale slowly for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four. Repeat this process several times to calm your nerves and focus your mind.
4. Progressive Muscle Relaxation
In order to reduce tension and anxiety, use progressive muscle relaxation, tensing and releasing different muscle groups; start with your toes and work up to your head, consciously relaxing each muscle group.
5. Practice Performing
To get comfortable with performing, practice in front of friends, family, or a small and supportive audience. Gradually increase the size of your audience as you become more confident. The more you perform, the easier it becomes to manage stage fright.
6. Use Your Nervous Energy
Accept that some level of nervousness is normal and even beneficial. Nerves are your body’s way of getting ready for a challenge. Instead of fighting it, channel that nervous energy into your performance.
7. Focus on the Music, Not the Fear
During your performance, concentrate on the music rather than your fear. Lose yourself in the melody and the emotions you want to convey. Remember why you love to perform in the first place.
8. Positive Self-Talk
Replace any negative emotions you might be having with some positive affirmations. Instead of thinking, “I can’t do this,” tell yourself, “I’ve prepared well, and I can do this”. Talking to yourself in a positive way can change your mindset.
9. Learn from Your Experience
Not every performance will go perfectly, but every performance is an opportunity for your musical skills to grow. Bit by bit, you’ll become more resilient after each performance, and you’ll get better equipped to handle stage fright.
10. Seek Help from a Professional
If stage fright is severely impacting your ability to perform, consider seeking help from a therapist or performance coach. Professionals can provide more specialised techniques to conquer anxiety.
Stage fright doesn’t have to hold you back. The audience is rooting for you!
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