Managing Music Performance Anxiety

In this blog, I'd like to address a common issue that nearly every performing musician encounters at some point in their career: Music Performance Anxiety, also known as "Stage Fright." This is a shared experience, a fear and heightened physical arousal that many musicians, including professionals, students, and amateurs, feel when performing in front of an audience or camera. It's a challenge that unites us all, regardless of our level of expertise.

About the MPA

It can be a complex and persistent problem for musicians, and straightforward explanations and solutions are not always available. This condition, characterised by debilitating physical symptoms such as trembling hands or legs, rapid heartbeat and breathing, sweating, and often mental blockages like music memory loss, possesses the potential to establish a recurring pattern of apprehension. For instance, a professional violinist might experience trembling hands while holding the bow steady, or a singer might find it difficult to control their breathing due to rapid heartbeat. Importantly, it is imperative to recognise that distress of such nature is not contingent upon an individual's age, status, proficiency, or standing within the field. It may present itself selectively within specific contexts or encompass a broader scope, permeating every musical performance, collaborative rehearsal, or pre-performance preparation. Recognising this non-discriminatory characteristic is essential for nurturing empathy and providing support, emphasising that all musicians are unified in this endeavour, regardless of whether they are amateurs, music students, or professionals.

Music Performance Anxiety (MPA) may be a hurdle, but it's not insurmountable. Overcoming such negative experiences requires high technical and performing skills, intense focus, and emotional and mental balance. With dedication and the proper support, it's a challenge that can be conquered. It's a journey worth embarking on, as it can lead to significant growth and improvement in your musical career, inspiring hope and motivation in your journey to conquer MPA.

Possible Solutions to Conquer the Stage Fright

Psychologists often see Music Performance Anxiety (MPA) as a pathological disorder characterised by extreme distress and debilitating symptoms. However, some now suggest more moderate views, even considering it an occupational hazard of the profession. Another perspective comes from theories on peak performance, which emphasise the importance of an optimal level of emotional arousal for performing at one's best. These theories suggest that a certain level of emotional arousal can enhance performance, but when it becomes excessive, it can lead to Stage Fright. Peak performance is a state of optimal functioning where an individual experiences positive emotional and mental states, leading to their best performance. It's crucial to grasp the significant difference between experiencing Peak Performance and Music Performance Anxiety, which triggers distinctly negative feelings. Understanding and acknowledging this distinction is valuable, whether you are a psychologist or a musician.

Psychologists and specialised music professionals are vital in helping individuals with MPA. They are skilled in implementing a variety of therapies, including cognitive therapy, which has been shown to effectively alleviate symptoms for many individuals, especially those suffering from depression or anxiety, which can sometimes be the underlying issue of MPA. Cognitive therapy helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to their anxiety. Other treatments that may be beneficial include exposure therapy, which involves gradually exposing the individual to the situations that trigger their stress, and relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation or deep breathing exercises, which can help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety. On the other hand, music professionals can provide practical guidance on performance techniques, mental exercises, and physical relaxation methods that can help manage the MPA.

My observations

As a specialised music professional in the field of occupational injuries in pianists, I have had to closely observe individuals on a personal level to help musicians with MPA for many decades. I employ various methods to cultivate musicians' technical skills and confidence, enhance their musical memory, and address associated challenges. These methods include specific breathing and mental exercises for anxious performers before or during their entrance to the stage or exam, techniques to manage physical tension and discomfort resulting from improper instrumental methods, and personalised performance strategies based on the individual's personality and psychological factors. Diagnosing this issue requires substantial time. Maintaining confidentiality is of utmost importance in our line of work, and rest assured that your privacy should always be respected. It is also important to note that even experienced performers may be vulnerable to MPA. In addition, during a recent piano concert and rehearsal on the same day, one of my advanced-level adult piano students unexpectedly experienced stage fright. This occurrence took me by surprise, as she had last suffered from stage fright many years ago.

It became apparent that her recent breakup with her long-term boyfriend had a significant impact on her mental and emotional well-being, which I was unaware of before the incident.

I have observed that the Stage Fright can significantly impact mental health and physical well-being and lead to performance-related injuries. It can elicit feelings of insecurity, anxiety, and depression in individuals, leading to occupational injuries such as tennis and golf elbow, as well as shoulder and back pain and more. Inadequate sleep and poor dietary habits will undoubtedly impact performance, particularly before a crucial event. Based on my professional expertise and experience, I have noted that personality characteristics significantly contribute to the severity of the condition. Moreover, it primarily emanates from individual personality traits and psychological factors. For instance, individuals with an extroverted disposition tend to derive satisfaction from public performances, while those inclined towards introversion typically excel in solitary settings. Understanding these factors can help in developing personalised strategies for managing MPA.

Stay tuned for more! Dive deeper into the topic with exclusive content from my upcoming interview. Don't miss out—connect with me on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and more to stay updated! I'm excited to share that I'll provide more in-depth insights through an online interview. To stay updated, connect with me on various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and more!

For further info, visit my webpage, Injuries in Pianists - General Advice, where you can find comprehensive information on managing performance anxiety and preventing performance-related injuries at https://www.marinapetrov.co.uk/general-advice

If you need help from psychologists or other experts and live in the UK, visit BAPAM for free consultations at https://www.bapam.org.uk/managing-performance-anxiety/. Remember, you're not alone in this; resources and support are available to help you through your journey with MPA.

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