Think of Audience as Friends to Reduce Stage Fright

Billy Joel's band is more nervous playing in New York than in Des Moines. Photo: Rodrigo Pena/The Press-Enterprise

Performing in front of a live audience is a greater challenge for some performers than the actual playing or singing. Part of the problem is stage fright. Stage fright can rob you of your concentration and even your technique.

The other part of the problem is the general discomfort that you may experience socially in front of strangers or friends. Billy Joel tells a humorous story about his band performing in New York. Since he and the band are from New York, you would think that it would be very comfortable for them. But according to him, he says that he looks over and sees his guitar player making the sign of the cross because his mother is in the audience and he doesn’t want to make a mistake. He does say, however, that the band is relaxed in Des Moines, and plays terrifically there.

The most important aspect of being in front of an audience is the attitude of sharing. You have something that you want to share and that “something” is your music. Try to make eye contact with people; pick out a friendly face and direct comments and glances to that face. Then find another and continue.

If there are things that you need to remember, there is nothing wrong with having a list placed where only you can see it. The list might include thanking certain people, band member names, the venue name, announcements of any kind. Talk slowly but conversationally. The audience is a friend even if you don’t know them. They wouldn’t be there if they didn’t want to be there.

Any stories you can tell can be helpful in not only breaking the ice but in creating good pacing all through the performance. Keep your voice interesting and animated.