The Power of Positive Performance Mindsets

Performing in front of an audience can be a big source of anxiety for young musicians, often leading to a lack of confidence and avoidance of practice. This fear of judgment or making mistakes can hinder progress and enjoyment of music. Similar to struggling readers who face anxiety while reading aloud, musicians may experience similar challenges, making it difficult to thrive in performance settings.

A study from 2014 explored the impact of reading aloud to therapy dogs, showing that it reduced anxiety and improved reading comprehension for children. Could this approach be applied to music performance as well? Several strategies have been developed over the years, where musicians practice performing for non-judgmental audiences, such as animals, to build confidence and focus on creating beautiful music rather than aiming for perfection.

These experiences help musicians shift their mindset from avoiding mistakes to embracing expressive, authentic performance, ultimately reducing anxiety and fostering greater confidence. For more on how this approach can be applied to music, read the full article on the Bulletproof Musician

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