On Performing

Performing: some people love it. Some people hate it. The important thing to remember is that we all need to do it! Performing helps us become better musicians and gives us a goal to work toward when we practice.The main reason some students hate performing is because of performance anxiety, or nervousness. Here are some ways to overcome performance anxiety and have a stress free performance!

1) Practice! There is nothing that can make you feel more secure on stage than
knowing that you are prepared. It is a comforting thing to say to yourself when you are about to go on stage “I know this.” Also, do some mock performances a few days before
the real thing for friends or family to get used to the feeling of being the center of attention.

2) Stay in the present. Do not think about what you think is going to go wrong once you get on stage. If you make a mistake just let it go and continue on like it never happened. It is in the past! Chances are, most people in the crowd didn’t notice it anyway.

3) Have fun! Performing is a time to show off your talent and hard work, not to criticize yourself. Be happy and proud that you tried your best. If things don’t go exactly as you
wanted them to, don’t stress. There will always be another opportunity to perform and
improve!