Performance anxiety
Performance anxiety can paralyze a musician to the point where playing in front of others is no longer possible. How can you shed this fear?
Stage fright happens to just about everyone. It's a normal reaction to an intense situation and actually helps you with increased adrenaline and energy.
But stifling fear inhibits you from achieving your dreams of making music and playing the flute.
For most of us, working through that fear and performing more frequently is the answer to performance anxiety.
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Play for a few supportive family members and friends. Even playing into a recording device can be scary for some people, so start there!
Do it over and over again.
Plan regular small performances. As you perform more, your fear diminishes.
Nursing homes are a great venue for performances. These dear folks are usually bed-bound and have no chance of hearing or seeing anyone who doesn't come to them.
Pack up your flute, stand, and CD player with your accompaniment CDs, and make the rounds. You'll be appreciated for sure!
If you attend a church, check with the music leader to see if they would like to have a flute solo.
Also, use your mind to work through your anxieties. Think to yourself, "What's the worst that can happen?"
Imagine the fun of playing your flute in a recital and playing the pieces that you love. Hear the compliments you'll receive after your performance.
And be sure you're not being too hard on yourself. A performance does not have to be perfect to be good.
If your stage fright is truly debilitating, try working with a coach. One of the best is Helen Spielman. Helen not only offers workshops throughout the United States and the world, but now hosts teleseminars. This is an economical way to learn from a great teacher from the comfort of your home.
Find out what my students are saying on the Cyberflute Testimonials page...
