• Shirin Gulledge posted an update 3 years ago

    So I’ve been at this for a month or so now and I feel confident enough to play in front of someone else- lazy John or Oh Susannah etc… However, I freeze up and my mind goes a bit blank. I mess up so much more. I can get flustered, cheeks burning. When I’m by myself- I am flowing along easily. Any thoughts? Any advice on how to “practice” staying present when performing?

    • I think that’s quite normal, I remember the first time playing in a group & shaking so much I could hardly hold my bow! If you can, just try playing some chords first or maybe some scales, & just focus on getting a sound you’re happy with then when you start to play your tune you are already focusing on your own playing rather than the fact you are performing in front of others. Hope this helps! The more you do it the easier it gets!
      • Sue replied 3 years ago
        I have the same problem. I asked Jason and he posted some really good tips on how to deal with it. Search How to Overcome Stage fright . It’s an issue I still deal with but there’s hope 🙂 I am getting better.