Most nervousness come from non-musical influences, such as self-doubt, wondering what is thought of you, thinking that the audition is the most important thing in your life, etc. For some, it takes a great deal of time to overcome these thoughts, and many have turned to beta-blockers to control the physical problems that come with nervousness. There are many books out there that address performance anxiety of this nature. There is one (my personal favorite) that takes a very pragmatic approach to dealing with these problems as they happen called "Mental Toughness Training for Sports". I would see if the author's techniques yield results before popping the pills. Ultimately, the best way to deal with nervousness is to continue putting yourself in such a position. Volunteer to play at different venues, (nursing homes, school assemblies, etc) and set up mock auditions for yourself. After a while, your body will get used to the feeling, and you will better know how to deal with it. Don't worry.
-----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, April 27, 2005 12:01 AM To: horn@music.memphis.edu Subject: [Hornlist] I'm Too Nervous I am only a sophomore in high school and I have taken many auditions for our senior honors district band and orchestras around the state. I prepare my music in an orderly fashion and I am completely prepared when I enter the audition site. I have noticed that my nerves are on end when I go into the audition room. When I have an audition, I am kind of excited about it, but not yet nervous. When I go into the warm-up room my heart begins to race. Once I had an audition and I was so nervous that my entire embouchure was shaking as I played my audition music. What is the best way to deal with nervousness before an audition? _______________________________________________ post: horn@music.memphis.edu unsubscribe or set options at http://music.memphis.edu/mailman/options/horn/pandolfi%40deerfield.edu _______________________________________________ post: horn@music.memphis.edu unsubscribe or set options at http://music.memphis.edu/mailman/options/horn/archive%40jab.org
