MONDAY BYTES – August 5, 2013
With friend and colleague Edna Landau (she writes the terrific Ask Edna blog for Musical America), this week I had a great talk that I’m still mulling over.
We were discussing the fact that sometimes performers don’t live up to their potential in concerts—they may have terrific technical abilities and actually perform very well but, unfortunately, this isn’t enough.
It’s the difference between being very good and being exceptional. And the “extra” is what we (the audience) most want.
Audiences don’t ultimately care about hearing all the notes performed correctly with the proper style, voicing, tempo, and articulation. We want all that but we want most is to be emotionally moved—then we care. Enough to buy tickets, recordings, and become a true fan and supporter.
Just how do artists get “in the zone” and tap into the “flow” state?
It demands being confident in the mechanics of what you’re doing—enough in command of the technical aspects—so that you can turn off the habitual self-talk and the hyper-vigilance we use in the practice room and be fully present to give a performance (instead of practicing on stage).
A big piece of this is about the quality and scope of your focus during the performance—where is your attention directed? I’ve seen stage directors work wonders with musicians on this, and I’ve seen master classes where this is addressed.
But unfortunately, it’s still rare for artists to get feedback on or help with this—on how they can best direct their thoughts and emotional energies while performing. And find out how this translates to connecting with audiences.
There are a number of excellent books on the topic, but from what Edna says and I agree, it’s probably best for musicians to get some good counsel/coaching from someone they can trust.
Questions to consider: In performances, are you able to “let go”? Have you gotten feedback on your ability to connect with audiences? Do you have a coach or mentor to discuss this aspect of your live or video performances?
For info on working with me: details are HERE
Monday Bytes archived posts are HERE.
Dream big, Plan smart, Live well!
