5 TIPS TO OVERCOME STAGE FRIGHT BEFORE A MUSICAL PERFORMANCE
Musicians dream about success on the stage, but they have all experienced stage fright — the fear of failure or receiving negative responses from the audience. It’s a type of stress that puts a musician in a state of alert before a performance. Stage fright doesn’t affect everyone to the same degree though. And in fact, some people consider it a positive thing as it means you’re in the moment. To tame your stage fright, here are 5 tips:
- Show Up Early
Generally, being late leads to a lot of stress. It’s better to show up early before your performance. You’ll have the time to relax and get acquainted with the atmosphere. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the venue and the stage. Remove any obstacles on the stage and ensure all your equipment is working properly. Having control over these elements helps beat stage fright.
- Try Some Relaxation Techniques Before Going on Stage
There are many relaxation techniques to help you calm down before a performance. Find an isolated nook where you can be alone for a few moments. It’ll be peaceful and you’ll have a moment to be by yourself: Think positive. Imagine your performance being a success. Another good technique is doing a physical activity before going on stage. It’s a great way to clear your mind.
- Rehearse in Front of Your Loved Ones
If you’re not comfortable with the idea of practising on your own, choose a time to rehearse in front of close friends and family. They’ll be able to offer encouragement, and any kind is always welcome. Those closest to you will also know how to point out what you need to improve and give you some tips. Your anxiety will be more likely to disappear because rehearsing makes it so that during your actual performance, it won’t seem like it’s the first time you’re performing.
- Rehearse Multiple Times
You need to practise so you know your piece by heart. Practising in front of a mirror is helpful so you can make sure you have good posture and smooth movements. Record the audio of your performance. This can be very useful and give you confidence in your skills. It will also allow you to evaluate yourself. You’ll have the opportunity to then correct any issues before the big day.
- Choose the Right Piece
It’s important for you to feel comfortable with the piece you’ve chosen. It’s also crucial that you don’t try something beyond your skill level. For instance, if you’ve picked a piece in another language, make sure you understand the lyrics and have mastered the accent. A good understanding of the content and the message will help you be confident on stage.
There are several ways to get over stage fright. Overcoming it requires patience and training. Some ways to keep it in check include relaxation techniques, analyzing your anxieties and fears, rehearsing over and over, and properly preparing for a great musical performance. All in all, practice is one of the most effective ways to beat stage fright.
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