Performance help?

Question

I tend to get very nervous before performing. I compete in music events very regularly. Does anybody have any tips on how to calm myself down before performing?

Answer 1

Go to a doctor and get a prescription for Valium.

Answer 2

I think eventually most people grow out of it after being infront of the crowd a few times or a bunch. You get used to being infront of the stage and it shouldn't bother you any more. For me as the Lead guitarist and vocalist for a band usally the first 2 solos I play suck compared to what I can really play. It takes me about 2 songs to get comfortable

Answer 3

Practice before the major event where you must perform. Go over parts that you struggle with. Don't overwork yourself though. If you practice too much then you go crazy and think of ways you'll mess up. Just practice until you feel as if you know what you're doing. When you're about to perform, try and take some deep breaths. If crowds nervous you then try not looking directly at the crowd. Don't look for people you know or anyone-just ignore them as best as you can. Focus on something else thats straight ahead...maybe the clock, the wall, the doors-anything. Also tell yourself that you know the material and can perform it pretty well. Don't allow yourself to think that you'll mess up. Another thing to try is pretend as if you're not nervous. It sounds weird but when I had to perform in dance this past school year I was freaking out. So I pretended as if I wasn't nervous and just tried to think of something to make me smile and not let the nerves take over. It also helps if you have friends encourage you. At the end of school we had to perform for just the class. I was scared but my friends encouraged me and when I was up there they supported me by smiling and waving. I did mess up but instead of stopping or giving it another thought my friends waved at me to continue and I did. So having support really does help. And accept it too. Don't tell them, "I don't think I'll do good" or "I don't think I did a good job at all." Accept their compliment or encouragement and believe it. Believing and having faith in yourself that you know what you're doing and will do good helps. Just get out there and play your best.

I'm sure you perform in music events because you love music. So go out there and just remember that you love music and do the best performance you can do. Relax and believe in yourself. Don't allow nerves to take over.

Take care!!

Answer 4

b r e a t h e.

think about what you are doing.

tell yourself, "this is MY moment. it's my time to shine. nothing can bring me down now."

know that no matter what, you are amazing.

i too perform. and honestly, having butterflies in my stomache is the BEST feeling in the world.

because once i get on the stage, or on the field, or on the floor, i forget everything, everything but what i'm there to do.

everything just stops. and it all seems to move in slow motion. i love looking into the audience, and seeing how they respond to my stage presence.

and just remember, no one can take that moment away from you.