How to Overcome Stage Fright as a Musician?

Performing on stage is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a musician. However, it can also be quite terrifying for some people. For instance, Adele once vomited on someone due to her stage fright. Additionally, Barbara Streisand stopped performing for decades after forgetting her lyrics on stage once. Overcoming stage fright can be challenging, but there are strategies to reduce its impact to allow you to become confident and fearless on stage.

What is Stage Fright?

Stage fright, also known as performance anxiety, is the anxiety or fear caused by having to perform in front of an audience. Symptoms of stage fright include rapid heartbeat, sweaty palms, or stomach pain. People are often worried about how they are going to be perceived. They do not want to be embarrassed or judged while on stage. Fear of failure is another factor that can cause stage fright. It is a response from the nervous system trying to determine whether to fight or flee. However, understanding that these feelings are normal and you are truly prepared for your performance can make all the difference.

Ways to Overcome Stage Fright

Practice Makes Perfect

When preparing for a music recital or performance, it is crucial to be thoroughly rehearsed to the point where it becomes second nature. It is important to ensure that your rehearsal is intentional and thorough. Practicing helps performers gain the confidence to execute their performance exactly as planned. Here are a few practice tips to make sure you are practicing correctly.

1. Set goals: What would you like to accomplish during this practice session? Is there a certain song that you have written that needs to be perfected? Do you have stage choreography that you want to go over? Being specific in your practice goals will help your practice.
2. Focus on Sections: Break down your performance into different sections. This will allow you to go over different parts of your performance and make sure you feel confident while executing it. 
3. Record Your Rehearsal: Recording yourself practicing will help you to pinpoint areas that need to be improved.
4. Rehearse in Different Environments: Researching in different environments will help you find comfort in the unknown. You can quickly adjust to any place you are asked to perform.
5. Practice In Front of People: Allowing people to see you practice will lessen the fear of playing in front of an audience. Also, allow them to give you feedback.

Mental Preparation

Mental preparation can help reduce performance anxiety. Visualization is a great way to imagine a successful, confident performance. Prominent athletes like LeBron James and Michael Phelps visualize every aspect of their game or meet before executing it. Artists like Jay-Z and Lady Gaga also practice this. Here are a few tips for mental preparation.

1. Visualization: Find a quiet place where you can relax without interruption. Doing this right before you go to sleep or right when you wake up in the days leading up to your performance is best. Visualize the performance setting, the audience, and even the stage lights. In detail, envision your performance song by song and imagine the audience loving it. Picture yourself being confident and engaging with the audience. Imagine the great feeling you have after the show!
2. Positive Affirmations: Affirmations generate a positive mindset. Repeat the following to yourself: “I am confident, calm, and in control.” “I believe in my talents.” “I perform with passion and authenticity.” “My talents shine through every performance.” “I release doubts and trust in my abilities.” You can implement this routine every morning or night during the week leading up to your performance. Then repeat it right before you go on stage.
3. Deep Breathing: Taking deep breaths and allowing yourself to relax is another great way to lessen performance nerves. Breathe for five seconds through your nose, hold that breath for five seconds, and then exhale through your mouth for five seconds. This will allow you to get your heart rate back down. Doing this right before you go on stage will calm your nerves.

Physical Preparation

It is important to be physically prepared as it will give you confidence and energy on stage. Start by warming up your body through stretching to wake up your muscles and allow you to move freely. Working on your posture is also a great way to show the audience you are confident. Lastly, make sure to get a good night’s sleep and eat a nutritious meal before your performance, as this will positively impact your performance.

Take Lessons

Taking lessons will help you feel more confident on stage. Whether you are taking voice lessons or learning an instrument, having a teacher focus on key aspects of your performance will help you identify areas for improvement.

Arrive Early at the Venue

Arriving early at your performance venue will allow you to get comfortable with the performance space. If possible, walk on the stage and practice your walking cues to ensure proper execution. Being in the space will allow you to adjust and get more comfortable.

Allow for Mistakes

Everyone is human, and mistakes happen. Remind yourself that if you make a mistake on stage, you can recover as if nothing happened. Making mistakes does not mean that you have failed. Understanding that mistakes happen lessens the intensity of fear and takes pressure off of you.

Practice Audience Interaction

Practicing interacting with your audience will prepare you for their presence. Engaging with them can help reduce your performance anxiety because you know they are there to support you. They are there to have a good time. Sing a line in a song directly to your friend in the audience, point to someone who is having a great time, and smile at someone who seems shy. Embracing the audience is key to being less afraid of them.

Have Fun

Do not forget to have fun. You have worked so hard for this opportunity to get on stage, and everyone who is coming to see you is there to support you! Keep in mind your love and passion for music, and consider performing as a chance to express that passion. Remember, this is your time to shine and share your talents with the audience.

Stage fright is a common challenge for musicians, but it does not have to get in the way of all your hard work. You will feel confident in your talent and abilities through thorough practice, mental preparation, and self-care. View your nerves as excitement. With patience, persistence, and a positive mindset, you can transform your anxiety into a powerful source of energy. Remember to celebrate your progress and know that every performance makes you an even better musician.