FREEDOM FROM FEAR
Individual problems, individual solutions
Te issues underlying each individual’s problems with performance anxiety are numerous and not the same for everyone, so no one tip will help all people. Evaluation will expose your particular issues. Start with an anxiety inventory or keep an informal journal, writing down after each liturgy what went well or not, and what was going through your mind as you sang or played. Dr. Don Greene’s website offers several different anxiety assessments specific to musicians, as well as online courses, his books, and a Ted Talk on practice at
winningonstage.com. Other general anxiety inventories available online include the Burns Anxiety Scale at
elmctr.com/wp-content/uploads/Burns-Anxiety-Scale. pdf and Mental Health America/MHA’s assessment at
screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/anxiety. Te questions asked can help you become more fully aware of symptoms brought on by fear. Although problems are somewhat individual in nature, psychologists have learned through experience with many clients that certain issues crop up frequently.
A centering process for
music ministers3 1. Form your clear intention—state one action, purpose or goal.
2. Pick a focal point lower than your eyes toward which you will hurl excess energy.
3. Breathe mindfully. 4. Become aware of and release bodily tension.
5. Find your center of gravity—usually two inches below the navel and two inches under the skin’s surface. Tis center is the same whether standing or seated.
6. Develop and practice a “process cue,” a word or phrase that summons an image, sound, or sensation recalling a positive music-making moment. Tis might be inner hearing of the first pitches of the piece to be sung, or recalling the relaxed, fluid movement of one’s fingers in the opening instrumental bars.
7. Direct your energy to the focal point chosen in Step 2, and let go. Trow away the excess energy, and relax, trusting in your ability, your preparation, and the Holy Spirit.
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