“I spent months and months of prep for the solo 🎹 performance for my audition–-my memory was solid, and I practiced those technically demanding passages over and over. Yet, when I set my foot on stage, I completely blanked out–I could not control my body. I almost felt like I was split into two people–my mind and body were not in sync. I could still hear the music in my head, yet my fingers went out of control. I felt so powerless and ashamed…”
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I hope this was not your experience, but if it was, you are not alone!
I feel your pain, but DON’T GIVE UP JUST YET!
❤️ Think of what initially brought you to this journey.
❤️ Think of why you are still practicing and trying so hard despite the challenges.
And look for another opportunity and try again! You got this 💪😤🤜
🧐 But this time, practice your performance with these strategies:
1️⃣ Set your practice room to create a performance-like atmosphere.
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Make sure to open your piano lid–whether you have a grand or upright piano, this is important. I hope that you do this during your daily practice.
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Set the lighting of your practice room so that it creates a concert-stage-like effect.
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Practice your bowing 🙇🏻.
2️⃣ Video record your rehearsals.
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Play your piece as if you are on the stage performing for a recital or audition and record the video (not just audio!).
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Watch it afterward and critique!
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I recommend doing this a few weeks before your actual performance.
3️⃣ Perform your piece at least 3 times in front of your peers, friends, or even strangers(!) beside your family members prior to the event.
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This step is crucial if you want to succeed in playing in the flow on the stage.
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You can also do this step by live streaming your rehearsal via social media with a privacy setting so that only a few people can watch it, for example.
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These are the strategies you should place closer to the date of your actual performance, whether it is the audition or recital.
Of course, before taking these 3 steps above, you should be doing my “purposeful” practice daily right from the get-go to set your mindset toward live performance.
😎 So, what are you going do to prepare for your big 🎹 performance? Tell me 👇👇👇