pianist Claudio Arrau performing

Claudio Arrau

“I don’t say that I never feel fear before a performance, but I have learned to channel it.”
–Claudio Arrau, pianist
The Musician’s Way, p. 162

Imagine that you’ve arrived at a venue 90 minutes before you’ll perform.

You have to set up the stage, check the lighting and sound, confer with technical staff, warm up, and change clothing.

How do you carry out all of those tasks and still prepare to give an inspired show?

For many musicians, pre-concert demands stifle their creativity and ratchet up their stress levels.

But if we adopt a certain manner, we can channel our energies into making art, even as we carry out backstage chores.

I call this manner Backstage Mode, and it melds five soulful actions.

“If we adopt a certain manner, we can channel our energies into making art, even as we carry out backstage chores.”

Backstage Mode – 5 Soulful Actions that Fuel Artistry

1. Uphold an Inner Smile

An inner smile fosters positivity and keeps us in touch with our creative selves.

2. Move and Speak Calmly

Even when stage crew rush around or time seems short, we lengthen the spine, release our shoulders, and stay composed.

3. Be Mindful of Your Breath

Smooth abdominal breathing promotes calmness. If we experience nervousness backstage, 2-to-1 breathing can restore inner balance.

4. Minimize Extraneous Speech

The Musician's Way book coverExcess chatter distracts us; inner quiet allows the music within us to bubble up.

5. Foster Your Desire to Perform

Throughout our time backstage, we should keep an internal stream of music flowing and anticipate the joy of connecting with listeners.

Pages 162-170 of The Musician’s Way explore diverse backstage techniques that help us to perform at our best.

Related posts
2-to-1 Breathing
Assessing Your Performance Skills
Becoming a Confident Performer
The Centered Performer

© 2012 Gerald Klickstein