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Two Ways to Simulate Performance Pressure (and Which Works Best)
I have a couple tips for you today - one for the practice room and the other for the kitchen (what?!).
So...you know how there's often a big contrast between the fresh hot pizza that comes right out of the oven and a slice that you've reheated at home? It can be really difficult to make leftover pizza taste as good as it did at the restaurant. But according to the internet, there are methods that can help you get pretty close (i.e. reheat in a pan on stovetop until bottom is crispy, pour a couple drops of water into pan away from pizza, cover, cook on low for another minute, and enjoy!).
Likewise, it can be really difficult to simulate the nerves and pressure of a real performance or audition in advance of the real thing. Because for some, a mock audition feels pretty high-stress. While for others, the experience doesn't even come close.
However, there is some research in this area, and a couple studies provide insights on how to create more pressure in mocks and practice performances, and better prepare you for the live experience. Turns out some methods work better than others.
Get all the nerdy details and this week’s practice hack right here:
Two Ways to Simulate Performance Pressure (and Which Works Best)
-Noa
A couple things from the archives
- In last week's podcast episode, Aaron Williamon noted that we often get so caught up in practicing, that we forget to practice performing. He also describes different ways we can prepare more effectively for performances, so if you missed it, you can check that out here.
- And while we're on the topic of performing better under pressure, you can also check out this article about a strategy that I'm still skeptical of, but does seem to help some folks: A simple technique to prevent choking under pressure
Deep thought o' the week
"If you're not feeling the pressure, you're probably not pushing yourself hard enough."
-Alex Honnold
The Bulletproof Musician
If you struggle with nerves and inconsistent performances, know that you’re not alone! Join 45,000+ musicians and receive weekly research-based practice tips that will help you get more out of your daily practice and perform more like yourself when it counts.
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