Music

Instrumental Music

Solo Performance

With the upcoming solo performances looming, many students are beginning to feel a little anxious. Families should realise the benefits of these performances and be assured that students are assisted to work through any issues they might have with performing in front of an audience. The performance skills students develop helps them in many other areas of school and life. The practice is also important for students who choose to do an exam or VCE music.

Some tips for overcoming performance anxiety include:

1. Be prepared: Students need to practice their music so they can confidently play it even when they are nervous.
2. Practice performing: students should practice their performance to family members and friends.
3. Focus on breathing:  Prior to a performance, students need to slow their breathing down and focus on deep breaths. This is particularly important when playing a wind instrument.
4. Practice good mental imagery and positive self-talk: if students imagine themselves playing well they will have a much better chance at doing so. They should avoid negative thoughts and focus on telling themselves what they can do. Prior to a performance, students need to focus on what they are about to do and not on other students.
5. Treat the performance as an experience for what it is. If things don’t go as planned, it is not the end of the world. The solo concerts provide a learning experience for students to work on specific skills.

Further Reading:

www.theflutecoach.com/beat-music-performance-anxiety/

AMEB (Australian Music Examination Board)

Many students choose to complete an AMEB exam. This is an external examination body which examines student’s playing ability at various levels. Students need to speak with their teachers prior to entering to ensure the correct level and requirements. The final exams will take place from 8th November to 4th December. Application forms are available in the music office and are due now by the 18th August.

Term 3 Music Dates

AMEB applications due                                                           Wednesday 18th August

Soirees-small ensembles & solo performances              Postponed until Week 7 or 8 (TBC)

Spring Concert-all ensembles                                              Thursday 16th September