Stage fright is something almost every musician experiences, and as a violinist myself, I know just how daunting it can be. That moment before stepping onto the stage – heart pounding, hands slightly shaking, mind racing – is all too familiar. But over the years, I’ve learned that stage fright doesn’t have to be the enemy. In fact, with the right mindset and preparation, it can become a source of energy that elevates your performance. Here’s my advice for fellow violinists on managing performance anxiety and playing with confidence.
1. Embrace the Butterflies
The first thing I tell young musicians is that nervousness is natural – even expected. The adrenaline surge you feel before performing is your body’s way of preparing for something important. Instead of fighting it, lean into it. Think of it as excitement rather than fear. That buzz of energy can sharpen your focus, fuel your creativity, and make your performance even more compelling.
2. Build Confidence Through Preparation
There’s no substitute for thorough preparation. As a violinist, muscle memory is your best friend. Practice consistently and deliberately, focusing on the tricky passages until they feel like second nature. But don’t stop there – simulate the performance environment during practice. Play for your family, friends, or even record yourself. The more you expose yourself to "performance conditions," the less intimidating the real stage will feel.
3. Create a Pre-Performance Routine
One of the most powerful tools I’ve discovered is having a reliable pre-performance routine. This could be a combination of gentle stretching, breathing exercises, or even a specific warm-up sequence on your violin. A routine provides structure and comfort in those moments when nerves try to take over.
4. Visualize Success
I often tell young musicians at Shar that your mind is as important as your technique. Before stepping onto the stage, close your eyes and imagine yourself playing flawlessly. Picture the bow gliding smoothly across the strings, your fingers moving effortlessly along the fingerboard, and the audience completely captivated by your music. This mental rehearsal can calm your nerves and boost your confidence.
5. Distract Yourself to Stay Focused
In the video, I shared a personal trick that helped me overcome stage fright during my early performances: distraction. Sometimes, I would deliberately look at the bright stage lights or focus on the back of the audience, rather than making direct eye contact with individuals in the crowd. This small shift helped me stay grounded in my performance, rather than getting caught up in worrying about the audience’s reactions. It allowed me to stay present, focused on my playing, and fully immersed in the music.
6. Focus on the Music, Not the Audience
It’s easy to get caught up in worrying about what the audience thinks. But remember why you started playing the violin in the first place – for the love of music. Shift your focus from the crowd to the piece you’re playing. Immerse yourself in the sound, the emotion, and the story your music is telling. When you’re deeply connected to the music, the fear of judgment starts to fade away.
7. Take Care of Your Body and Mind
A well-rested body and a clear mind can make a world of difference. Get a good night’s sleep before your performance, eat a balanced meal a few hours beforehand, and stay hydrated. Avoid too much caffeine – it can heighten anxiety. Gentle exercise, like a short walk or some deep stretching, can also help release tension.
8. Remember Why You Play
At Shar Music, our mission is to support musicians at every stage of their journey, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Whether you’re a student preparing for your first recital or a teacher leading an ensemble, remember that music is about connection. Your audience is there because they love music too. Focus on sharing your passion rather than striving for perfection.
Stage fright might never disappear completely, but with practice, patience, and a bit of self-compassion, it becomes more manageable. And who knows – it might just become the spark that makes your performances unforgettable.
Happy practicing,
Charles Avsharian
Founder and CEO, Shar Music
