• Develop effective practice strategies for performance
• Manage performance anxiety and nervousness
• Master stage presence and presentation skills
• Prepare mentally and physically for successful performances

Introduction

Performing for others is both thrilling and challenging! Whether it's a recital, exam, or casual gathering, good preparation makes the difference between a nervous ordeal and a confident, enjoyable performance. Let's develop essential performance skills!

The Performance Preparation Timeline

8 Weeks Before: Selection and Initial Learning

• Choose appropriate repertoire (not too hard!)
• Learn notes and rhythms accurately
• Understand the music's structure and style
• Practice slowly and thoroughly

6 Weeks Before: Musical Refinement

• Work on phrasing, dynamics, articulation
• Add ornaments if appropriate
• Bring music up to performance tempo
• Identify tricky spots—practice them extra

4 Weeks Before: Memorization (if required)

• Work on memory section by section
• Practice from memory with score nearby
• Understand form—helps memory!
• Keep reviewing from score too

2 Weeks Before: Performance Simulation

• Play through complete piece daily
• Record yourself—listen critically
• Perform for friends/family
• Practice walking on, bowing, starting

1 Week Before: Polish and Rest

• Final refinements—don't over-practice
• Trust your preparation
• Visualize successful performance
• Prepare performance outfit, equipment

Managing Performance Anxiety

Some nervousness is normal—even helpful! But too much can interfere. Strategies:

Physical Strategies

• Deep breathing: Slow, deep breaths calm nervous system
• Progressive muscle relaxation: Tense and release each muscle group
• Exercise: Physical activity before performance reduces anxiety
• Avoid caffeine: Can increase jitters

Mental Strategies

• Positive visualization: Imagine successful, confident performance
• Reframe nerves: "I'm excited!" not "I'm scared!"
• Focus on music: Think about the music, not yourself
• Acceptance: Some nerves are okay—don't fight them

Practical Strategies

• Over-prepare: Know music so well you can relax
• Practice performance situations: Simulate pressure
• Have a pre-performance routine: Warm up, breathe, focus
• Remember past successes: "I've done this before!"

Stage Presence

Walking On Stage

• Walk confidently—shoulders back, head up
• Smile (if appropriate for the music)
• Make eye contact with audience
• Take your time—don't rush

Bowing

• Face audience, pause, bow from waist
• Acknowledge accompanist (if applicable)
• Don't rush—this is part of performance
• Bow again after performing

Before You Start Playing

• Settle into position comfortably
• Take a slow, deep breath
• Hear the tempo/first note in your mind
• THEN begin—don't rush!

During the Performance

If You Make a Mistake

• Keep going! Don't stop or make faces
• Don't apologize (verbally or with body language)
• The audience may not even notice
• Focus on what comes next, not what happened

If You Have a Memory Slip

• Keep playing something—improvise if needed
• Jump to a section you remember
• Don't panic—stay in the music
• If completely stuck, politely start over

Performance Day Checklist

• ✓ Instrument clean and in good condition
• ✓ Extra recorders (backup!)
• ✓ Music (even if memorized—safety net)
• ✓ Pencil for any last-minute marks
• ✓ Appropriate performance attire
• ✓ Arrive early—don't rush
• ✓ Warm up gently before performance
• ✓ Water (stay hydrated)
• ✓ Tissues/cleaning cloth

Practice Routine for Performance Prep

1. Run-throughs: Play complete piece without stopping (daily)
2. Targeted practice: Work on difficult sections (15 min)
3. Simulated performance: Dress up, invite audience (weekly)
4. Recording: Listen back, identify issues (2x per week)

After the Performance

• Bow, accept applause graciously
• Thank accompanist/ensemble
• Reflect: What went well? What to improve?
• Celebrate—you did it!
• Don't dwell on mistakes—learn and move forward