As musicians, we spend a lot of time in a closet-like room privately preparing for the point when we will have to come out of that safe practice room and give a public performance. In this way, musicians’ personalities can be challenged quite a bit. We can been seen as introverted, quiet and thoughtful and then on performance days we become the center of attention with a great deal of energy and enthusiasm. It makes me wonder how many people must think we have completely lost our minds!
When I am preparing for a performance, I simulate the entire program several times in the weeks leading up to the concert date. These simulations can help you develop endurance and give you a chance to imagine your surroundings and possible stressors that may occur during the performance. You may also invite a few friends or family members to be a practice audience for you.
Begin by finding a large room or performance space (or even the very hall where the concert will take place). Set up the room exactly how you visualize it for the concert with all details in mind: music stand with sheet music, position of the piano (with lid opened or half stick), any chairs (for yourself or other musicians that may be involved) and a tray or small table for your water and swab. Once the room feels right, find a place outside of the room to warm up just as if you were backstage. When you feel ready, enter the room and imagine the audience warmly accepting your entrance keeping in mind that once you enter the room, your performance has begun. At that point, proceed to perform the entire program without stopping and without breaks (unless there is a scheduled intermission). Be sure to practice how you will bow and acknowledge your colleagues performing with you as well as how you will enter and exit the stage in between pieces. If you really want to push your endurance, take about a twenty to thirty minute break after having gone through the entire program and then repeat the process again. Record these run-throughs for your own review and to help make a plan for your next practice or performance session.
Please bear in mind that the practice technique above is mainly to be used for building up endurance and confidence. It has always amazed me how the music transforms dramatically during a performance. I believe it is important to allow yourself to react to your surroundings and create a performing environment where the music can take on a life of its own. When a performance is well-rehearsed in all practical and technical matters but lacks a sense of connection with your musical colleagues, something is lost in the translation to your audience. Enjoy yourself and allow the music to speak through you.
