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Their palms sweat; their hearts race; their hands shake. Eighty percent of all people experience anxiety when they become the center of attention.1 Many musicians are not able to perform their best as a result of an increased anxiety level. While many believe it is important, and even necessary, to experience some performance anxiety to play their best, anxiety should not take over and debilitate the performer. The effects of performance anxiety may appear when a discrepancy exists between what has occurred in practice and the actual performance. When anxiety prevents an individual from performing her best, not only is the performer affected, but others' musical experience also may be affected.
It is important for performers to seek methods to deal with the feelings accompanying performance anxiety. The following are several basic techniques to alleviate mild performance anxiety.
Memory Stations
Selecting designated measures throughout a composition to be memory stations, an individual could confidently jump to these if the need arose. These stations should coincide with the phrase structure of the piece, possibly every eight to sixteen measures, and should be well marked within the score. Such notation will be especially helpful for visual learners.
Video/Audio Tape
Video- or audiotape practice sessions, reviewing the tape, critiquing the performance. While viewing the videotape, you could identify places in the music where tension is present. To help the feeling of being threatened by the critique, listen or view the tape as an outsider observing a colleague's performance.
Realistic Expectations
Be certain to set realistic expectations when choosing appropriate repertoire. Selected repertoire should be well within an individual's capability. The time frame also needs to be considered when choosing the music, allowing ample time for the student to learn the music and have time to live with it once the music is learned.
Performance Rehearsals
Participate in performance rehearsals during the weeks prior to a scheduled performance. If possible, hold a rehearsal in the actual performance space. This would be especially helpful for pianists, allowing them to become familiar with the instrument. Three to four rehearsals prior to a performance permit the individual to feel more secure with the music, as well as identify any weak spots that may need additional attention.
Perform Frequently
Performing frequently may not...