4 Strategies to Help You Handle Performance Anxiety

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In this episode, Hannah discusses performance anxiety in Irish traditional music. She shares personal experiences of feeling frustrated and nervous while playing in front of others. Hannah explores the fear of making mistakes, sounding silly, and being a beginner in a space where one feels they should be more advanced. She offers strategies for handling performance anxiety, including practicing breathing techniques, being prepared musically and externally, surrounding oneself with supportive people, and embracing curiosity and experimentation in playing. Hannah encourages listeners to overcome their fears and share their unique voices in the Irish traditional music space.
Takeaways:

• Performance anxiety is a common experience for musicians, including those in Irish traditional music.
• Strategies for handling performance anxiety include practicing breathing techniques, being prepared musically and externally, surrounding oneself with supportive people, and embracing curiosity and experimentation in playing.
• It is important to remember that mistakes and sounding silly are part of the learning process and should not deter one from sharing their music.
• Surrounding oneself with supportive and encouraging people can greatly impact one's confidence and growth as a musician.
• Embracing curiosity and experimentation allows for personal growth and the discovery of unique sounds and expressions on the instrument.

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