Stage Fright. Be not Afraid!

Even the most professional and experienced musicians suffer from stage fright and nerves.  No matter how long you have played your instrument, whether as an amateur or professional, you will rarely overcome your nerves  completely.

The trick and success of playing while feeling this way is to learn to manage them.

Nervousness and stage fright can obviously seriously effect your playing and there are a number of tecniques to overcome this feeling of overwhelming "stage fright". While some performers may get an adrenaline rush or slight palpitation, other performers can suffer much worse.  String players may involuntarily bounce the bow on the string, whilst wind players may play with shaken breath, resulting in broken notes and phrases. I know when I as a singer have been especially nervous, my legs were actually shaking.

Practice makes perfect

The most common and obvious trick is practice makes perfect.  Practice your piece inside out, back to front. If you know the piece exceptionally well and can play it with your eyes closed then you will be mentally prepared. The performance will be much less daunting. On the other hand if you are ill rehearsed then this will only add to your nerves.  Try practising as much as possible in the weeks leading up to the performance. Know your music inside and out. This is ultimately the best "antidote", if you will to stage fright.

Staging a mock performance in front of your family and friends is another way of becoming more prepared.  Play the piece in front of one person until you feel comfortable to invite in more.  Increase the number gradually and become accustomed to the fact that all eyes are on you.  It is generally this feeling that produces stage fright.

If you have a teacher for your instrument, take advantage of the concerts that are provided for the friends and family of their students. If they do not generally have these, ask if they would be willing to do so. You must play in front of people as much as you can to practice dealing with stage fright. Start small as I mentioned and build on that.

Once you have rehearsed (making sure you have at least 3 practises with an accompanist) try getting a dress rehearsal at the venue itself.  Dress rehearsals are an excellent idea as you will know exactly know how the piece will sound acoustically as well as how you will feel in full performance dress.  Simply by making your clothes looser or not wearing a tie can make you feel more comfortable. this may not always be possible but see if you can go to the performance hall and get a feel for it. 

Don't Practice Too much!

On the run up to the performance, usually the last 2-3 hours, try not to pick up your instrument.  If you have rehearsed you will be ready. I like to take a nap or at least lie down for a while so I am totallly rested. This pays off! Try to remember that people are coming to see you and this should instill some confidence.  Finally when on stage take your time!  Tune your instrument until you are ready to begin and carry on if you make a mistake, people will not notice if you play the wrong note but will notice the expression on your face.  Last but not least enjoy the sensation of playing music! It is an amazing talent to have and you should be proud, not scared that you have the opportunity to show others.