Nerve Options

[wannabegood]

Morning, often read the messages, but have only just decided to join. I am currently waiting, not so patiently for my grade 5 theory results and also my grade 3 piano which I took last Saturday. I was just wondering if anyone has any tips for controlling my nerves. Have always suffered during my exams (I am grade 5 Sax and Clarinet) and was recommended the Bach remedy. But after taking what must have amounted to half a bottle in my cup of tea and also sprays on the tongue, I walked into the examination room and completely went to pieces...although well prepared and I ended up as a quivering wreck and came out in tears, not good for a 40 year old women! Help needed please, am seriously thinking of giving up on the lessons.

[A.U.K]

One of the best ways to conquer nerves or at least get them under control is keep performing..perform at every given oppertunity, play for anyone and everyone and play music you are playing for an exam..

Also if you accept you are nervous and don't fight it things get easier..just say to yourself I am nervous or that you feel nervous, smile and play on..a smile releases tension and alters the focus from the nervousness to the acknowledgement of somone else..

It does get easier, it may never totally go away but if you can harness it you can turn it to your advantage and give some explosive performances..

Andrew