Performance Pays in Many Ways!

Think back to when you saw a performance. Whether it was a musician, comedian, singer, dancer, actor, public speaker, etc. - each performs in his or her own way. In the art world there are natural performers (those who are naturally blessed with the drive and seemingly innate ability to speak, sing, act, entertain, and naturally feel or appear comfortable being in front of others) and there are those who are not natural performers on their own (most would rather die then be in front of an audience), but with a little coaching anyone can become a performer to some level.

The best part is each of us is performing in the greatest production of all - life! As we live life to the fullest, we all are invited to perform on a daily basis. It may be as simple as speaking in front of a group of friends, hosting a party, accepting an award and being asked to give an acceptance speech, or even coaching a little league team.

When it comes to the musical world, musicians of all ages thrive on the performance. It quite literally becomes their nourishment. Without the performance the performer does not exist.

With that in mind, it is imperative for younger musicians to experience what it feels like to perform in front of others. Recitals often seem redundant and sadly, some turn into a group practice rather then a concert. Younger students have many opportunities to perform, but don't take advantage of them. Encourage younger musicians to try the following:

- Invite your friends over to your house and have a piano party. Play 1 - 2 songs for your friends and encourage them to play an instrument if they play one.
- Ask your school teacher if your class can have a class talent show.
- Try out for your school musical, drama production, choir, band, orchestra, etc.
- Try to write a song for your school reflections competition.
- Ask your local church if you can play prelude, postlude, or accompany others when they sing.
- Find out if you can perform at the local retirement center.
- Find out if you can play the piano at the local hospital.
- When you feel more comfortable playing, play the piano at the mall or shops during the holidays (if you play well enough - you may even get paid for playing).
- Play the piano at every holiday family or neighborhood party.
- Have family activity nights where you play for your family and friends.
- Hold a backyard concert. Invite family, friends, and neighbors over. You can even make up flyers and make it a big deal because it is.

Performing in front of others pays great dividends. When younger musicians perform in front of others they gain confidence in themselves and their talent. They become more motivated to practice because the more they perform the more they need to. It nourishes them and soon they crave it. And when all is said and done, they become performers simply because they perform. Performance pays in many ways.

Written by Jerald M. Simon
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