8 Steps to Take When Preparing for a Performance
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a live performance, especially when it’s your child on stage! At Bach to Rock, we understand this excitement and are committed to helping young musicians shine. Whether your child is part of a rock band lesson or taking private music lessons, preparation is key to a successful performance.
What are the Benefits of Performing Music Live?
One of the most evident advantages of performing on stage is the significant boost in confidence and self-esteem that students experience. Successfully delivering a performance in front of an audience validates their abilities and hard work, which translates into increased self-assurance in various areas of their lives.
This experience is also invaluable in enhancing public speaking and presentation skills, as it requires students to effectively communicate and present themselves before an audience. The discipline and responsibility learned through preparing for a performance are critical life skills. Students learn time management, the importance of regular practice, and commitment to their role, which positively affects their academic and personal lives.
Group performances, such as in bands or orchestras, are excellent for improving social skills and fostering teamwork. They require students to work cooperatively, developing empathy, patience, and better communication.
Related: Advantages of Playing in Multiple Bands
Preparing for a Performance
Preparation is key when it comes to performing on stage. It can be common for kids to feel nervous or anxious before their first performance, but it gets easier! Here are eight essential steps to guide you and your child through this exhilarating journey and prepare them for stage.
- Understand the Performance Requirements:
Before anything else, get clear on what the performance involves. How many songs will be performed? Is it a solo performance or with your child’s band? Will there be judging involved or is it a community event? This understanding is the foundation of a confident, prepared musician.
- Prepare Your Setlist:
A well-organized setlist is crucial, whether your child is performing solo or with their band or glee club. Help them choose songs that showcase their strengths and blend well together for an impactful performance. Each event may vary in length so it’s important to know how many and which songs to prepare for.
- Practice, Practice, Practice
There’s no substitute for practice. Regular, focused practice sessions not only build skill but also confidence. Help your child establish a practice routine that fits into their daily schedule. It can be especially important to squeeze in some extra practice time right before a performance. This will only help your child be more confident on stage when they’re confident in their ability to perform their setlist.
- Tune and Prepare Instruments
The condition of your child’s instrument can significantly impact their performance. Ensure that it is well-maintained, tuned, and ready for the big day. This might involve regular cleaning, changing strings, or professional servicing.
- Dress Rehearsal:
A dress rehearsal is an excellent way to prepare for the actual performance. It helps your child get used to their performance attire and iron out any last-minute issues. This includes wearing their performance outfit, setting up the stage or practice area similarly, and performing the entire setlist without stops.
This rehearsal helps in identifying any issues with attire (like uncomfortable shoes or accessories) and gives a real sense of how the performance day will feel. This can help ease any butterflies, especially for beginners.
- Managing Performance Anxiety:
It’s natural for performers to feel nervous. Teach your child techniques to manage anxiety, such as deep breathing or visualization, to help them stay calm and focused.
Encourage them to focus on the music and the joy of performing rather than on the audience. Remind them that it’s okay to make mistakes and that the goal is to enjoy the experience. If they do make a mistake, pause, take a deep breath, and focus on having fun.
- Feedback and Positive Reinforcement:
Positive feedback from instructors and parents is invaluable. It helps children understand their strengths and areas for improvement, boosting their confidence and skill. One of the most difficult parts of performing is just getting up there, so positive reinforcement will just help make kids better musicians.
- The Day of the Performance:
Ensure everything is ready for the performance day. Pack all necessary items and arrive early to avoid any last-minute rush. Ensure you know where to park, what time to arrive, and where exactly to go when you’re there to meet up with everyone. Allowing enough time for mishaps is always a good idea to ensure a smooth day of the event.
Preparing for a performance is a journey that involves much more than just learning the music. It’s about understanding the nuances of performance, building confidence, and learning the value of preparation. By following these steps, your child will be well on their way to delivering a stellar performance with Bach to Rock.
Ready to see your child shine on stage? Join a band alongside our private music lessons today, and set the stage for a lifetime of musical success!