Don't Choke: 5 Tips on Performing Live

Don’t Choke: Tips on Performing Live:

1. Practice, Practice, Practice:  The best way to avoid messing up under pressure is to practice until you can do it in your sleep.  That way even if you feel nervous and think about messing up you won’t because it is engrained in your memory.   Make sure to include your vocal exercises to strengthen your voice before every practice, which takes time.  Practice in front of a friend or family member to build up your confidence; even practicing under low to moderate levels of stress will prevent from choking.  Another great way to prepare is to listen to feedback from friends and from your vocal coach.
2. Remember to Have Fun and Show It:  That is the most important performance tip, is to have fun. I know it is nerve racking to sing in front of an audience but remember why you are doing it in the first place. You are doing it because you enjoy it, right? Well, then show the audience what you love to do and put some soul into it. Perform with all the energy you've got and don’t forget to smile! Just in case you do miss a word or mess up a little, remember not to stop or get mad, just continue on and smile. If you play it off like nothing happened some people will never know. 
3. Get Away:  Before your performance take a break from the nerves and stress of performing; do something that will help you relax, take a hot bath, get a coffee with a friend, watch a favorite or a favorite TV show.  This will help to revamp and stay focused without losing focus. 
4. Don’t Forget to Rest your Voice:  The most important tip is to practice, practice, practice but when getting ready for a vocal performance or a recording session, you don't want to lose your voice. On the day you perform, do not forget to rest, try not to talk very much (never yell).  Picture it like you only have a certain amount of 'voice money' in the bank and you don't want to use it up on the day of the performance or recording session.  It is also beneficial to drink hot tea and stay away from dairy, chocolate and caffeine the day of.  Never do a 'belt voice' workout on the day of either.  When taking voice lessons the coach will help your voice become stronger overtime, it is not good to overexert.  A strong voice takes time. 
5. Be Positive:  Make sure and keep a positive attitude, instead of thinking the fear of messing up, visualize yourself doing the whole performance perfectly several times. Also, focus positive energy towards your performance and encourage yourself that you will nail it; say things like, “This will be an awesome performance” and “I am a great performer”.  Concentrate and focus all your energy towards a great success! 

Get quality and proven vocal technique and practice with professional voice lessons in Salt Lake City, Utah at The Performer Studio www.theperformerstudio.com or call 801-513-9780