How to Overcome Stage Fright
GET STARTEDDo you get nervous anytime you are about to go on stage or perform for an audience? Do your hands sweat and shake, or do you feel nauseous or lightheaded? If you answered yes to any of those, you may suffer from stage fright. Don’t worry though! Even the most seasoned of professionals still get nervous before performing. Here are some tips to overcome stage fright and give an award-winning performance.
- Practice a healthy lifestyle and diet in general. Steer clear of foods like sugar and caffeine, as these will contribute to your stage fright by making you jittery.
- Remember what you are there to do. You are performing on that stage because you have a beautiful piece of music to offer the audience. Forget any doubts you may have, and focus on the skill you are presenting.
- Practice calming exercises such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These exercises can relax your mind and body, allowing you to loosen up before your performance.
- Envision success. Imagining yourself doing well will help you actually do well. Focus on nailing your performance, and it will happen.
- Stand in Superman stance. There’s scientific evidence that proves standing tall with your feet apart, hands on your hips, and chest out makes you feel more confident. Do this for two minutes before performing to overcome your stage fright.
- Figure out where you feel most comfortable looking. If you’re playing an instrument, you most likely get to stare at sheet music, avoiding the audience watching you. If you’re a vocalist, you probably don’t have that option. For large audiences, try looking at the back of the room so you don’t have to make eye contact with anyone. It may hugely help your stage fright.
- Know that it’s okay to make mistakes. Nobody’s perfect and you don’t need to put yourself through the ringer trying to be. Do your best, and have fun with your performance.
Pre-performance anxiety is something the majority of performers struggle with. Follow these tips to overcome stage fright, and remember that the better you know your performance piece, the less nervous you will be. The expert teachers at Grace Music School can help you build confidence in your musical skill and put your stage fright to rest.
Grace Music Schools offers the best comprehensive music educations in Suffolk County with exceptional teachers and a proven track record of excellence. Call us today for more information at 631-239-6169 (Fort Salonga) or at 631-470-9705 (Melville).