Nerves before a music performance are not uncommon. In fact, feeling stressed or anxious can be an issue for beginners and seasoned performers alike.

Here are a few tips to help you deal with nerves, so you can perform your best and have fun.

1. Pick the Right Song

Be realistic about your abilities as a musician and performer, and don’t take on more than you can handle. Avoid choosing a song that is too difficult, or would take too long to learn. Instead, pick a song within your comfort zone, maybe something you are already familiar with.

2. Memorise Sections

One way to ease the pre-performance nerves is to commit a few sections of your chosen piece to memory. That way, if you end up in trouble, you have something to fall back on. The audience will most likely be none the wiser.

3. Be Prepared

As well as practicing your chosen music, make sure you have tied up all the other loose ends, so when the day comes you will have less to worry about. Things to consider include whether or not you need a page turner, or what you are going to wear.

4. Rehearse

If possible, try to perform four rehearsals before the performance. Even better, see if you can rehearse in the location where the performance will take place. This is especially important for piano players, as it can be reassuring to familiarise yourself with piano you will be performing on.

5. Relaxation Strategies

If you’ve prepared and rehearsed but you still feel nervous, there are quick and simple relaxation strategies you can try.

Deep breathing is a great way for musicians to relieve anxiety, as it can be done anywhere, anytime. Meditation and progressive muscle relaxations are activities you can do at home before heading on stage to help you stay calm and focused.

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Performing in front of a crowd can be daunting, but once you’re up there, there truly is no feeling like it. If you are interested in learning an instrument, please give us a call on 02 9602 9774 or fill out the form on this page.