Do you have a performance, recital, or Trinity College London exam coming up? Are you feeling a little nervous, and wondering how you can improve your chances of playing piano perfectly? We are here to help.

It’s only natural to feel anxious before playing piano in front of an audience. In this article, we’ll share five tips for easing your nerves and performing your best. Let’s get right to it.

1. Practice, practice, practice

This one may sound obvious, but the best way you can prepare for a performance is to practice your chosen piece of music over and over and over again. Know it back to front. Play it fast. Play it slow. Go over the areas you have trouble with in greater detail. Remember, if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail.

2. Choose the right piece

If you choose a composition that is beyond your skill level, you are asking for trouble. Go for a piece you are confident with, that shows off your talent without challenging you too much. If you have to play multiple pieces, we suggest starting with the simplest. That way, when you master it, you’ll feel more confident during the remainder of the performance.

3. Perform for your friends or family

Set up a performance space around your piano, in your living room, or in your backyard, and do a show for your friends or family. If you make a mistake in front of your loved ones, they won’t judge you. In fact, they may not even notice. This performance stimulation will help you feel more familiar with the performance process, boosting your self-belief while treating others to some musical entertainment.

4. Focus on tempo

When we are nervous, we tend to speak quickly – our brain is just moving so fast. The same thing can happen when we play piano. If you play too fast, you may find yourself tripping over your notes, making silly mistakes that you don’t usually. Take it slow. Don’t rush. Enjoy the performance as much as you can.

5. Get some perspective

At the end of the day, it’s just a performance. If you make an error, it’s not the end of the world – even if you’re trying to pass your music exam. Understand that, while you should certainly try your best, how you perform isn’t the be all and end all. Music is about having fun, so embrace it!

Improve your piano playing

Looking to improve your piano skills? Here at the Liverpool Academy of Music, we offer world-class piano lessons for musicians of all ages and skill levels. Get in contact today to learn more. Give us a quick call on 02 9602 9774 or fill out the form on this page, and we’ll be in touch soon.