Last updated on Jul 17, 2024

A singer is struggling with anxiety from past negative experiences. How can you help them overcome it?

Anxiety can be a significant barrier to a singer's performance and career. Past negative experiences, such as stage fright or critical feedback, can lead to a fear of repetition, causing a singer to feel anxious whenever they perform. Vocal coaching can play a crucial role in addressing and overcoming this anxiety, not only by improving singing technique but also by building confidence and resilience. Understanding how to help a singer manage and conquer their anxiety is essential for vocal coaches who aim to support their clients in achieving their full potential.

1 Identify Triggers

Understanding the specific triggers that cause anxiety is the first step toward managing it. You need to reflect on past experiences and pinpoint the moments that have contributed to your anxiety. Was it a particular performance, the fear of hitting high notes, or criticism from an audience or judge? Once these triggers are identified, you can work with your vocal coach to develop strategies to face and overcome these fears. This might involve gradual exposure to the triggering situations, positive reinforcement, or cognitive restructuring techniques to change negative thought patterns about your abilities.

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Ariane Indira Messmer

Singer & Performer | Creatrix of Atelier Voice & Words | Championing healthy and versatile voices | Empowering people to express their authentic stories | Voice & Language Teacher | Certified Estill Master Trainer
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Vertrauen aufbauen mit humorvollen Übungen. Es braucht Zeit. Ich habe auch schon die Erfahrung gemacht, dass wenn die Angst zu gross ist, ein systemischer Coach z.B. zusätzlich gut helfen könnte. Wir sind schliesslich Sänger*innen und Gesangslehrer*innen und keine Therapeuten. Entspannungsübungen können Wunder bewirken - auch um übertriebenes 'abdominal pumping' und overworking zu vermeiden. Wenn die Kehle zu macht, die false vocal folds (Taschenfalten) - Übung von Estill Voice Training anleiten. Damit man den Unterschied spüren lernt, wenn diese Strukturen gegen die Stimmlippen drücken, oder eben zurückgezogen sind.

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2 Build Confidence

Building confidence is essential for overcoming performance-related anxiety. Start by setting small, achievable goals for each practice session and performance. Celebrate these successes, no matter how minor they may seem, as they contribute to a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy. Your vocal coach can help by providing constructive feedback and encouraging you to focus on your strengths. Additionally, visualization techniques can be beneficial; imagine yourself succeeding and delivering a flawless performance. Over time, this positive imagery can help reinforce your belief in your abilities.

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3 Technique Mastery

Mastering singing techniques can significantly reduce performance anxiety. With a vocal coach's guidance, focus on perfecting your breath control, pitch, and tone. Having a solid technical foundation gives you a sense of control over your performance, which can alleviate anxiety. Practice regularly and mindfully, paying attention to each aspect of your technique. As you become more proficient, the fear of making mistakes will lessen, and your confidence in your ability to handle challenging pieces will grow.

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4 Mindfulness Practice

Mindfulness can be a powerful tool for managing anxiety. Engage in mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help center your thoughts and calm your mind before performances. These practices encourage you to stay present in the moment rather than worrying about past experiences or future mishaps. Your vocal coach can guide you through specific mindfulness techniques tailored to performers, helping you to maintain focus and composure when it matters most.

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Jean Patrick L’ENTĒTĒ

Entertainment Manager I video editor | AVID, FCPX | Songwriter l Author l Studying Ai and Business Management Bringing Music | Sound 🔊& Light 💡 to Life I 20+ Years of Experience
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Breathing exercises can really help in these situations. It’s important to make the student feel comfortable and him or her what’s bothering them . Use empathy this is crucial. And ask them to join us in a little breathing exercise that will make us more relax and in the now together we can achieve many things

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5 Support Networks

Creating a strong support network is invaluable for overcoming anxiety. Surround yourself with friends, family, and fellow musicians who understand your struggles and can offer encouragement and advice. Your vocal coach should be a key part of this network, providing not just technical training but emotional support as well. Sharing your experiences with others who have faced similar challenges can also provide perspective and coping strategies. Remember that you're not alone in this journey, and having a robust support system can make all the difference.

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6 Performance Exposure

Gradual exposure to performance situations can help desensitize you to the stress and anxiety they may cause. Start with low-pressure environments, such as singing in front of a mirror, recording yourself, or performing for close friends. As you grow more comfortable, incrementally increase the audience size and the level of formality. Your vocal coach can assist by creating safe, supportive opportunities for you to practice performing. With each successful exposure, your anxiety will likely diminish, making way for confidence to take its place.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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David Keenan PhD, MSc, FNCS

Fellow NCS MBACP (Accred) Counsellor Psychotherapist Supervisor
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EMDR. there is much research in Empire evidence that this is the preferred mechanism to address previous anxieties. a good history, taking may indicate that it has nothing to do with the performance element for the singer but something that triggered it angst or trauma. Integrating those into a human integrative model will quickly benefit recovery

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A singer is struggling with anxiety from past negative experiences. How can you help them overcome it?

1

2

3

4

5

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1 Identify Triggers

2 Build Confidence

3 Technique Mastery

4 Mindfulness Practice

5 Support Networks

6 Performance Exposure

7 Here’s what else to consider

Vocal Coaching

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A singer is struggling with anxiety from past negative experiences. How can you help them overcome it?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Identify Triggers

2 Build Confidence

3 Technique Mastery

4 Mindfulness Practice

5 Support Networks

6 Performance Exposure

7 Here’s what else to consider

Vocal Coaching

Rate this article

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