Whether you’ve been taking guitar lessons in Phoenix for years, singing in secret in Scottsdale or getting your grunge on in a garage band in Glendale, you’ve likely endured your fair share of scorching Arizona summers…but if you thought that was hot, know that nothing will make you sweat more than your first live performance.
For musicians of any skill level or genre, the first performance is always a nerve wracking and scary experience no matter what. Never before have so many eyes been on you, and the pressure to deliver a noteworthy and memorable performance can be intense. Luckily, Scottsdale Music Academy knows a thing or two about performance pitfalls and how to overcome them. Read on to discover our expert tips for rocking your first live performance.
The 3 Cs to Conquering a Concert or Live Show
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Confidence
Confidence is king when it comes to the quality of a performance. The only way to get that confidence is through practice and preparation. While practicing on your own is a must for any musician, to really amp up your musical talents and make you stage ready, consider taking music lessons. From keyboard lessons in Scottsdale to guitar lessons in Phoenix, the Valley of the Sun offers a host of music lessons in the surrounding area for every type of musician. At Scottsdale Music Academy, we can help you build your confidence by bestowing you with all the skills needed to deliver a crowd-pleasing performance. No matter where you end up taking lessons, remember that confidence only comes to those who work for it.
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Connection
To truly own your performance you need to be connected, both with the music you’re playing and the people you’re playing to. Start by selecting concert music that really speaks to you. Playing music you feel connected to will automatically help you play with more passion and power. By choosing a piece you care about you’ll be more likely to delve deep into the song and focus on the music rather than on your nerves. But don’t get too caught up in the song. Remember to look out at your audience every once in a while and engage with them. Doing so will help listeners feel like they’re sharing in the experience and will led them to willingly place their ears in your hands.
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Carrying On
Even the very best musicians flub their performance from time to time, and it will more than likely happen to you, too. But whatever you do, don’t panic! Just carry on as normal and continue playing with confidence even if you have to fake it. Although you might have messed up a note, calling attention to it will only make it worse. Chances are the audience won’t even know you made a mistake, unless, of course, they can read it in your expression or your attitude. The bottom line? Don’t let one mistake derail your whole performance.
Last but not least, it’s helpful to get critiques and feedback before your big show so that you know what areas you need to work on. That could mean throwing an intimate rehearsal in front or friends and family or soliciting advice from your instructor during your private guitar lesson in Phoenix. However you choose to rehearse make sure to treat it with seriousness. A well-rehearsed practice of any kind will undoubtedly help wrinkle out any kinks and settle your pre-performance jitters.
Follow our three Cs formula and you’ll have no trouble acing your performance no matter if it’s your first or your fiftieth.
From voice to keyboard, bass or guitar lessons, Phoenix and Scottsdale residents know that Scottsdale Music Academy is the place to go for help staying cool as a cucumber during concert craziness and so much more!