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These performance tips are listed in their order of importance:
1. Keep Going. Don’t stop and start over again, say “oops!”, or have a strange look on your face.
2. Keep In Control. Go slower than you think the piece should go, always keeping up your concentration.
3. Keep Counting. Count softly out loud. This will keep your rhythm consistent and all one tempo.
4. Keep Smiling. You prepared well, so relax and enjoy your playing! Say “Thank you” when someone tells you that you played well.
Play For People. Sit some family or friends down and give a mini-performance as a run-through. Make sure you keep going!
Control Over Speed - Keep Your Brain Ahead of Your Fingers. Only think about what is coming up, not about a little mistake you just made.
Cold Play-Throughs. While you are walking by the piano randomly during the day, sit down without warming up.
Plant Some Distractions. Have a family member or friend try to distract you by a sudden cough or sneeze, or make other noise to see how you can focus and concentrate on your playing.
Play Through Your Performance Pieces In Order. If you know the order of your pieces, play through them all the way even if you make a mistake.
Check Your Body Position. Before you begin the first note, check that you are the correct distance away from the piano (Your elbows should be slightly in front of you, lean a little forward, and keep your feet flat on the ground).
Hear The Tempo and Dynamics. Tap out the starting tempo of each piece before you begin and remember how you want to start with your volume.
Jump To Another Section. If a memory slip happens where you completely stop, jump to another section. If you go back and make the same mistake again, jump ahead to a secure section - don’t dwell on it.
Breathe Calmly. Yes, don’t underestimate the importance of breathing - it helps keep you calm and in control.
Pretend You Are At The Performance. Envision yourself playing beautifully and as well as you do at home. When you are at the performance, think you are at home with no one else around.
Practice In Performance Clothes. Make sure you can pedal in those shoes, that your collar is not too tight, whether you are going to wear the watch or not, and not have excessive jewelry.
Mistakes happen. Do your best to prepare, and enjoy your performance. Focus and concentrate on your music at all times, and be as expressive as you can. You should be congratulated for all your efforts and hard work you put into piano - that is what is worth the most.
Article Copyright © 1999 by Paul Nazzaro |
