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Hello!
Mark here from The Happy Pianist!
Last week a parent texted me with a concern, which I think can be a common concern for many parents and students too.
âMy child was preparing for a live performance last year, and practice a lot at home. Heâs very motivated and practice every day to perfect the piece. I can see him play the piece very well.
However, on the actual performance day, he become nervous, missed a few notes. He told me his mind âgo blankâ, which never happen at home. Heâs quite disappointedâ
Does the same thing happen to you or your child before?
You played so well in practice, but somehow mess up when itâs a performance? |
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I spoke to the parent for almost 1 hour. But hereâs my summary for you.
The difference lies in the mental state.
When youâre practicing, you know youâre just practicing.
- Itâs low risk. You can make mistakes. You can play the same pieces again.
- Youâre comfortable with the surroundings at own home.
- No one is watching you
When youâre performing, your brain works different.
- Itâs high risk. You only have 1 chance. Thereâs pressure to play perfectly. Once you end, you canât come back to the stage and say âI want to play againâ.
- Different environment, different acoustics. Your instrument donât sound the same, even though its the same.
- Many eyes are watching you
So the problem to solve:
- Learn how to perform entire piece under pressure
- Learn how to perform in different environments
- Learn to perform with others watching
Solution: Gain performance experience, by performing in low risk settings.
1. Play in different places:Play on friendsâ piano, public pianos at MRT, or even walk into a piano shop and play the piano there.
2. Play in front of different people:
Play to friends, play to strangers at MRT pianos. Get used to being âlooked atâ, and still perform well.
3. Play in low risk settings before the actual performance:
Do a mini concert at home, or the Happy Music Recitals which we organise regularly to give proper stage experience. These low risk settings allow you to build up your confidence (and make mistakes with no consequences).
These will prepare you for higher stake performances like competitions or exams, or audition.
We're still in early 2026, and there are many performances you can take on.
Hope these tips help you in your high stake performance this year!
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Like to join us for our March Movie-themed Recital?
For our March 2026 recital, we welcome you to dress up in your favorite movie character costume - be it Superheros (Superman/Spiderman), or Cartoons (Paw Patrol, Pokemon), or Disney (Elsa , Cinderella)!
Perform any songs you like, in your favorite movie character costume!
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The Happy Pianist connects potential piano students to qualified and experienced piano teachers in Singapore. A free service for parents and students with no hidden fees, no admin fee, no registration fee.
Reach us any where below: |
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