The Essence of Stage Presence
Tags: audition tips, creative process, deep practice, how to conquer nervousness, how to improve stage presence, music careers, music performance, self-motivation, stage deportment, stage presence
“To be on stage is to be in charge.”
–The Musician’s Way, p. 179
Take a moment to recall the stage presence of some memorable soloists: Don’t they convey a sense of authenticity and enjoyment?
It may seem that stage presence would be akin to personality – largely inborn. In fact, projecting a commanding presence involves skills that any musician can learn.
Here are four essential components that I’ve identified and that I expand on throughout The Musician’s Way.
1. Preparation
Thorough artistic preparation empowers us to be secure and expressive under the lights.
Similarly, smart organization ahead of an event ensures that we arrive on time, in a positive mood, and with all of our equipment ready.
2. Desire
When we’re not only prepared but also passionate about sharing our music, our enthusiasm draws listeners in.
3. Strength
Audiences look to us to take them on musical journeys.
So whether our on-stage personalities are outgoing or laid-back, we need to hold the stage with the vigor of leaders.
4. Showmanship
Showmanship (or show-womanship) entails projecting our love of music and our desire to commune with listeners – it doesn’t equate with flamboyance.
When we’re on stage, whether we’re performing for the public or an audition panel, our demeanor should broadcast an invitation that says, “Let’s share something magical!”
Related posts:
The 5 Facets of Performance Preparation
Mastering Performance Skills
Practicing Performance
Projecting Ease
The Zing of Adrenaline
© 2012 Gerald Klickstein
Photo © Tatiana Morozova, licensed from Shutterstock.com
Kentaro Blaze said:
Apr 25, 13 at 19:56beautifully written.
i couldnt agree more
Rick Robinson said:
Apr 26, 13 at 01:19Gerald, this is wonderful!
One thing I would add because it helps me so much is to imagine we’re all family and friends in our communal living room. That’s why speaking with the audience informally, trying to draw a little talk back or laughter is a very important technique to relax everyone.
Gerald Klickstein said:
Apr 26, 13 at 05:52Thanks for the comments Rick and Kentaro. Rick: I concur that speaking and humor create powerful connections with audiences and positively contribute to our presence on stage – every performer needs the skills to be able to connect verbally with listeners. Also, I think that your point about imaging that you already know your listeners and that you’re gathering in a comfortable, supportive space is a mental technique that would help almost anyone. Thanks for contributing!