Addressing Music Performance Anxiety: A personal account

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Emmerson, Stephen

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Stepanov, Oleg

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2019-09-10
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Abstract

This paper examines my experiences with music performance anxiety (MPA) and my recent efforts to address them. Its aim is to analyse the efficacy of a selection of treatment strategies to cope with my MPA. While it is recognised that the personal assessment I provide is specific to myself, it is hoped that others whose performances are affected by MPA will find this evaluation of strategies useful. A qualitative artistic research method was applied to this project. This led to a generative reflexive methodology being developed to evaluate the efficacy of the chosen strategies. Regular performances in varying environments allowed a rigorous analysis of the chosen treatments and ample stimulus to reflect upon. This resulted in the gradual evolution of how I applied the treatments and how they were practised. It was found that the most effective of the strategies considered were systematic desensitisation to the performance environment, cognitive restructuring and the quieting response. Considerations for future studies would include enhancing concentration under stress and focussing on optimal performance and Flow.

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Thesis (Masters)

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Master of Music Research (MMusRes)

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Queensland Conservatorium

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The author owns the copyright in this thesis, unless stated otherwise.

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Subject

Music performance

Anxiety

Performance environments

Cognitive restructuring

Quieting response

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