I had to be dragged from the toilet and onto stage 3 years ago to perform my bachelor recital.
Since then I have overcome my devastating fear, but it has taken a lot of soul searching. I don't think there are any quick fixes to severe stage fright. I have tried everything from deep breathing, beta blockers, and reading a ton of books on the subject.
What worked: I have been working with an excellent psychologist for 4 years and done a lot of personal work on the side. Basically I had to decide that no one is in a position to judge me on stage - not even me - and my only job is to set the music free into the world. It simply isn't my place to control what happens with it once it is out there. I also had to learn that I am deserving and worthy of success and the good things in life. On a material level I found supplementing the B Vitamin complex was helpful as were the Paraliminals. Going out into nature (I like the forest) is a good way to keep nervous energy balanced and to inspire breakthrough.
Why not take some private voice lessons? Then you are alone with the teacher for the majority of your work with occasional ventures on to stage from which you can learn a lot. I have several students whose main objectives are to improve their speaking voice and stage presence, but who enjoy the beauty of singing as a path to those goals.
__________________
I love to grow. |