I started to play the piano when I was six. Back then, my mind was simpler. I enjoyed every opportunity to play the piano on stage, and I always performed well. However, my flute journey was not so smooth. I began playing the flute when I was ten. As much as I love playing the flute, my performances were not so consistent. I remember that my lips trembled in some competitions, and every inhale did nothing but tightening my body. Luckily, I did very well in my music college auditions. After I became a flute-major student, I started to look at my own routine for overcoming performance anxiety. So here I am sharing my experience with you.
1. Remember the enjoyment of performance
I could play in concerts very well when I was a kid, but why I became less confident when I grow older? I found the answer: the fear of judgement. That fear took away my enjoyment and made me forget why I chose to become a performer. To change this, I transformed every competition/audition into a recital in my mind and see the judges as my audience.
Think doubt your favorite recital as a reference. For me, it was my senior recital at CCM. It was my first full-length recital so I was quite nervous. However, the moment I went on stage, I saw my colleagues’ warm smiles, and I suddenly felt confident and eager to share my music with them.
Although we cannot expect all the audience to be as supportive as they were, having a concept of sharing is what I found helpful in playing.
2. Be prepared
Nothing can substitute preparation. It’s not possible for a performer to have confidence if he/she did not prepare well. I think that can be why I did well in my college auditions because I practiced so much and I knew what I could play. There are two aspects of preparation. First, preparation for the piece. Second, preparation for the performance.
In practice sessions, slow practice every technical phrase and push the dynamic range. When it comes to preparation for the performance, of course having dress rehearsals is one way, applying visualization is also vital. Think about what you will do once the stage door opens in detail. You will hold your instrument, walk on the stage with your instrument with smile, put the music on the stand, bow to the audience, etc.
3. Development a healthy pre-performance routine
The actual competition/audition starts way earlier than the actual date. If drinking coffee makes you shaky, then it would be wise to quit coffee several weeks earlier. Maintaining a regular working schedule, working out regularly, eating healthy food can all contribute to a successful performance.
A routine can be personal. Taking advice from other people is important, but the most important thing is that it works for you.
What are your hacks to deal with performance anxiety? Comment below 🙂