Ever struggle with your stage confidence? Me too! We’ve all been there. Here are some stage confidence tips that I use.
I recently did a performance, and because of a last minute switch, I lost a week of prep. After practicing the best I could, it was time to go onstage. Here’s how I honed my confidence even when I was feeling nervous about this performance.
1. Meditation
This might sound over-the-top, but it really helps me. Before this concert, I sat down, closed my eyes, and focused on my breath. This grounded me so that my breath didn’t get to shallow before the performance. (As an oboist, I need to be able to take a deep breath on stage.)
A trick I do in my meditation is imagining my younger self who was working so hard to get where I am now. I imagine what they might say if I told them what I was doing. Usually younger-me is pretty excited. Doing that helps give me confidence.
2. A Confident Introduction
Before I even play, creating a confident spoken introduction is so helpful so settle my nerves. Instead of just talking about the piece, I share with the audience about what sort of journey I am about to take them on and what they can expect. Then I know I have to deliver in my playing.
It also takes the focus away from me doing well or not, and places it on the experience of the audience. When I do that, I tend to focus on the story I’m telling, which helps calm me.
3. Creating confident body-language
Walking on stage is so important. Smiling as you walk through the door and walking confidently not only shows the audience you are ready, but tricks your mind into confidence.
Before I go onstage, I take one grounding breath, smile, and walk on. Your time on stage is yours to craft.
Confidence is a muscle that we all have to work at. It is a decision before the performance.
All my best,
Eleanor
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