Overcoming Performance Anxiety: Techniques for Singers and Auditioners

Introduction to Managing Performance Anxiety

For many singers and performers, the thought of an audition or stage performance can be overwhelmingly nerve-wracking. This anxiety often manifests in a loss of control, particularly with high notes and maintaining a steady voice. However, there are effective techniques and mental practices that can help reduce these feelings and enhance your performance. This article explores various strategies for managing performance anxiety and offers insights for both amateur and professional performers.

Physical Techniques to Reduce Nervousness

One of the most effective tools for calming pre-performance nerves is to prioritize your breath. Place your finger on your pulse, preferably in your wrist, and focus on your heart rate. Gently close your nostrils and exhale slowly through your mouth until you notice a significant decrease in your heart rate. This simple yet powerful technique helps your body relax and prepares you mentally for the audition or performance. Another method involves redefining your feelings. Instead of labeling yourself as nervous, try telling yourself that you are excited. This shift in perspective can significantly alter your physical and emotional responses. Excitement, in this context, represents an eager and energized state, which is much more conducive to a successful performance. Keep in mind that the physical symptoms of nervousness and excitement are the same—your body does not differentiate between the two.

Power Pose: A Physical Approach to Mental Preparation

Before going on stage, take a moment to practice power posing. Stand tall with your legs apart, chest forward, and arms held high above your head. This pose can help you feel stronger and more confident. The concept behind power posing is rooted in the idea that your body influences your mind, and vice versa. Taking control of your physical posture can help regulate your emotions and ease performance anxiety. If you are in a restroom, spend a couple of minutes in a powerful pose to prepare yourself for the stage. For more on this technique, you might want to watch a TED Talk on the subject.

Mental Techniques to Overcome Audition Nervousness

Another way to ease audition nervousness is to lose yourself in the words and emotions of the song. When preparing for an audition or performance, it’s essential to focus on the meaning and sentiment of the lyrics rather than your feelings. Pretend that you are not the singer but rather interpreting the words of someone else. Try to feel the emotions of the author and convey them authentically. This technique works for all types of songs, whether they are love songs, songs about tragedies, or religious songs in Latin. If the song is in a foreign language, finding a word-for-word translation can provide better insight into what you are singing.

Practice, Practice, Practice

The key to excelling in any performance is consistent practice. Make sure you are fully prepared and confident. To achieve this, spend additional time rehearsing your repertoire. When I was preparing for a public performance, I made everyone who stepped into my rehearsal space sit down and listen to me. This approach ensures that you are always ready to perform. The more you practice, the more you build your confidence and reduce your anxiety.

Conclusion

Performance anxiety is a common experience, but with the right strategies, it can be managed effectively. By focusing on your breath, redefining your emotions, and practicing power posing, you can significantly reduce your pre-performance nervousness. Additionally, by immersing yourself in the lyrics and emotions of the song, you can enhance your performance and delivery. Remember, the more you practice, the more confident you will become. Good luck!

Keywords: performance anxiety, auditioning, singing techniques