Performing with Confidence and poise is a skill that can be developed with the right strategies and by making a roadmap of how to attain it. If you are a musician, speaker or any performer, the ability to present yourself with confidence can significantly impact your performance. This article draws on advice from music teachers, speakers, neurologists and professional performers to provide a holistic approach to master the most sacred art of confidence under pressure.
Preparation
Performance preparation is the bedrock of a confident performance. One of the most helpful tools is to make a structured preparation timeline by creating a detailed calendar of steps for preparation. This involves scheduling dress rehearsals well in advance of the performance and by practicing in the performance space if possible.
Practical Tips
- Dress Performance Rehearsals: Scheduling dress rehearsals early to ensure the availability of the venue and all participants. This helps simulate the actual performance, environment and helps to reduce anxiety the day of the event.
- Performance Space Practice: Practicing in the performance space can help familiarize you with the acoustics and layout of the venue, making you more confident on stage.
- Mental & Emotional Preparation: Mental preparation is as crucial as physical preparation. Neurologists like Sharon Sha from Stanford highlights the importance of mental techniques such as visualization and affirmations; Positive affirmations such as “I am well prepared and confident” or My music brings joy to others” can help transform the negative self-talk into positive confidence building talk. (https://www.mentalhealth.com/tools/science-of-affirmations)
- Building Confidence Through Repetition: Professional performers often stress the importance of repeated practice and exposure. Taylor Swift, for instance, overcame her stage fright by performing frequently. She believes that the more you perform, the more comfortable you become on stage. (https://www.wonderslist.com/celebrities-with-stage-fright/)
- Frequent Performances: Perform as often as you can, in formal and informal settings. This could include playing for family, friends, pets, stuffed animals etc. You can even try recording yourself and reviewing your performance. Through the use of simulated performance, the “unfamiliar” becomes the familiar. The more you perform, the more confident you will become.
- Simulated Performances: Create simulated performance scenarios to practice under mock pressure. This could involve performing for a small audience or even setting up a mock stage at home or elsewhere. Even, an audience of stuffed animals or a room full of pets or friends can help you gain confidence.
Practical Tips to Help Elevate Confidence for Teachers and the Performers Support System
- The Powers of Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in building confidence. Encouraging words and constructive feedback can significantly boost a performer’s self-esteem. Music teachers use specific compliments to highlight what the student did well, which helps reinforce positive behavior. A simulated performance “audience” will often provide positive feedback for the performer. Instead of giving generalized praise, they can be specific about what the student did well. For example,” I really like your dynamics. “Well done! Your expressive dynamic control in the Andante section was truly remarkable.”
- Rewards and Privileges: Students will be inspired if they are consistently offered incentives, such as allowing the student to lead a group activity, allowing the student to select a new piece to work on, giving prizes or awards or a chance to play a fun music game. This approach effectively acknowledges and rewards the student’s effort and progress. Students who know they will be rewarded for stellar work, will strive to receive the award.
- Physical Preparation and Stage Presence are essential components of having a confident performance. Practicing posture, breathing techniques and moving around on stage will help the performers feel more confident, at ease and grounded.
- Ritual: Develop a comprehensive preparation ritual that includes various physical exercises and mindfulness practices, such as reaching for the sky, touching your toes, and performing side stretches to increase flexibility and reduce muscle tension. Incorporate deep breathing exercise, like the 4-7-8 technique where you inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds to promote relaxation and focus. Add mindfulness practices, such as a 5-minute body scan meditation, where you mentally check in with the goal of complete relaxation. Make time for a brief session of journaling to reflect on your thoughts and set your intention for success. Using a holistic approach prepares your body physically and also enhances mental clarity, reduces anxiety and creates an optimal state for performance.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of performing with confidence and poise is a journey that combines preparation, mental and emotional readiness, repetition, positive reinforcement, and physical presence. By integrating these strategies into your routine, you can transform your performances and captivate your audience with ease and grace. Remember, every great performer started somewhere—your journey to confidence and poise begins today!