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Music Question

For those who perform..

So my band got a gig to play in less than a week, and it's going to be a big crowd. We've only ever played in front of a few people, so this is really important for us.
But I'm incredibly shy. I play guitar, and whenever we play I just stand there, and I can't look at the audience.
Anyone got any tips for having better stage presence? I'm so nervous :[
 para-scence posted over a year ago
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Music Answers

DramaQueen1020 said:
Oh darling, don't worry. I'm in performing arts, (you know, acting and music,) so I've picked up some tricks. Remember, you don't have to do all of these, but they help. If you want, try them out, see which ones work for you.

Before you go on:
1) Get something to eat about an hour or so before you perform. It saps your energy if you perform on an empty stomach.
2) While standing, cross your ankles like you're about to turn around. Cross your wrists. then turn them so your thumbs point to the ground. Interlock your fingers. Then twist your wrists inward so your knuckles rest against your chest. Close your eyes, and concentrate on nothing but keeping your balance. It may take a few tries at first, don't worry. Do this for 20 seconds to a minute. This exercise helps with calming nerves and concentration.
3) Before going on, shake your wrists out. This helps loosen your wrists up, which would be especially good for a guitarist.
4) While backstage, dance around like you don't have a care in the world. Smile while you're doing it, this is something you can really have fun with. This should help get nervous energy out and boost your confidence.
5) Before you go on stage, take a deep breath.

Onstage:
1) When you get onstage, start with a big smile. I don't know how, but this always helps.
2) While playing, don't think about the audience. Go through the performance just like another rehearsal. Take deep breaths if you start to feel anxious. Always remember to breathe.
3) Don't look down at the crowd. That'll just raise your nerves. Try to find a point to focus on in the back of the house (the part of the theatre the audience is in). That way you don't focus on the crowd, and you won't be blinded by the stage lights. If you want, you can always focus on your guitar, but if you keep your head up, that says "I feel confident!"
4) I doubt you would be playing in a band if you didn't love making music. This is something you love, enjoy it! Above all, have fun with this. It's your performance. If you have a solo, just rock out! Do not be afraid to dance. Again, smile. Laugh if you want. Focus on the music, you will feel great!

I hope this all helps, please tell me. As theatre people say, "Break a leg!" Have fun!
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