Performance coming up? If you have never played in public before, then here are some tips.
Make sure your instrument is in peak condition; if you play something other than piano. Guitars should have new strings and be tuned. Check all the screws and springs on your flute; and double check the position of the tuning cork in the headjoint. Flute players with accompanist will need to tune to the piano.
If you perform on piano, you may want to go on a different day prior to the performance; or go early enough on the day of the performance to try the instrument you will be playing. Get a sense of the touch and of the room acoustics. All pianos react in a different manner. Do not play your entire program. Just start each piece and play enough to get the feel of the piano.
Know your performance piece(s) backwards and forwards, and inside and out! This means you have practiced them enough that you can play without mistakes, or at the very least, one or two mistakes.
Record yourself one week before your performance date. Hearing the music will help you determine the work that remains to be done!
The day of the performance is NOT the time to be fixing mistakes. If you do not know the music perfectly by the day before, then you are in trouble.
Spot check troublesome areas. Always practice the most difficult places first.
There are two kinds of performers. Those that play perfectly (or better) the very first time through; and those who do better after having warmed up by playing through the songs. Know which kind of person you are; and prepare accordingly.
Remember to breathe. If you have memorized your piece, get settled on the stage. ACT CONFIDENT. THEN, take a good breath and begin. If you happen to make a mistake, don’t stop. Continue on, as if nothing has happened. ABSOLUTELY DO NOT go back to the beginning and start over. When you come to the end of your piece, take a breath, and then bow, regardless of how you think the performance went.
Poise, and acting skills are just as important as the actual musical performance.
Every bit of work you have invested in your practice preparation will pay off. Performing is a skill. Professionals still get nervous when performing, but they have developed their own coping techniques. (Addressed in a different Blog).
BE PREPARED AND GIVE IT YOUR BEST TRY!