THE WAY OF PIANO • MIND • BODY • SOUL
Written by ANDREW EALES
For many, performing is one of the key goals for learning to play music. But is it essential to play to others, or to perform in public? And if so, how do we overcome anxiety, nerves, and any negative past experiences?
The following articles consider these questions, explore the toxic impact that a competitive approach can have on self-esteem and collaboration, and offer hope for a positive approach to performance that will bring joy to performers and listeners alike.
START HERE
Addressing some of our most basic questions about performance, these articles make the case for positive live performance:
Why live performance matters
The confidence to perform to an audience isn’t conjured overnight. We need to provide plenty of occasion for learners to develop the art of performance if we want to ensure that live music continues to prosper…
Why Perform?
Performing to others can be a positive focus that brings out the best in us as players, and helps us to raise our game, becoming the best pianists we can be. Here are some of the reasons…
Take a Bow! How, When and Why…
Stagecraft is a skill that must be taught to students as part of performance preparation…
COMPETITIONS
For some, competitive events offer the only opportunity to perform, in which a friendly, supportive, and collaborative atmosphere is replaced by a negative and potentially humiliating experience.
The following posts explore this hugely important topic.
Competition & Conflict
According to concert pianist Maria João Pires, “to compete always damages your soul.” Overcoming the competitive spirit can seem to be an uphill struggle, but a more positive performance outlook is possible.
The Pianist’s Humiliation
Humiliation is a deeply painful emotional state caused by public exposure of a person’s mistakes or weaknesses. Recognised by psychologists as one of the most potent of emotions, it can have a long-lasting impact on a person’s self-esteem, wellbeing, and mental health.
Running in place of horses
We can observe and learn from the examples of others without taking away what is rightly theirs, or seeking to replace them. Don’t try to beat or to be somebody else‘s personal best; try to be the best version of yourself.
Avoiding injury: a fresh outlook
The question of why some pianists suffer injuries that are seemingly related to their piano playing is one which has occupied the minds and research of pianists, pedagogues and medics for decades. But some of the answers are obvious, and have little to do with playing techniques…
DIGGING DEEPER
The following articles offer further encouragement to support performers of all ages and abilities, and promote participation in live music:
Our Commitment to Music
In this acutely observed and beautifully nuanced guest post, well-known pianist, educator and examiner Peter Noke deftly explores the links between exam concerns and the musician’s timeless commitment to live performance…
Making Peace with your Inner Musician
To what extent do ‘results’ cause anxiety in your life? How do we make peace with our inner musician?
Facing our Fears
Our most destructive fear is often not an irrational terror of supernatural gremlins, but the panic that fills our hearts at the thought of stepping out on stage, approaching a looming grand piano, and performing to an audience…
A Child Prodigy Speaks
Questions about ‘child prodigies’ lead inevitably to a consideration of how special talent develops, and the best ways for parents, teachers and the wider community to responsibly nurture young players…
Too Shy to Perform
Learning to play music can bring immense personal satisfaction, cultural enrichment and genuine enjoyment to our lives, whether we choose to perform or not…
“Stand back from the edge please!”
Most of us rarely question the fears or values that were instilled in us at a young age. But perhaps we should do…
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