My Own Stage Fright Story
This one hits pretty close to home for me because I suffer terribly from stage fright and have for many years. Not my whole performing life, but for long enough to make an impact. Let’s dive straight into this beast and learn how to overcome it.
It was just a few weeks ago at our Mid-Year Showcase. With new faces in the crowd, I decided to perform a piece to show that I practice what I preach. But in the lead-up, my anxiety peaked. I knew my song, I’d rehearsed, but every doubt shouted otherwise. I ended up using my music — something I was disappointed about.
Perhaps you could say the nerves “won,” but I believe I made a choice. I chose to use my music because I was in control. That’s the biggest reminder I give my students in lessons and in the FAQ: you’re always in control, not the nerves.
Turning Stage Fright Into Stage Fuel
Nerves don’t have to be the enemy. Some say nerves mean you care — I’m not sure about that one, but I appreciate the sentiment! What I do know is that nerves bring energy and adrenaline. You can use that to fuel your performance instead of derailing it.
So maybe the trick isn’t to fight stage fright, but to redirect it. To embrace it. To turn the tingle in your fingertips into something powerful as you walk on stage.
It’s definitely something I’m working on in my own performances, and I encourage you to do the same. And if confidence is something you want to build, you may find our Singing Lessons helpful.
