Stage Fright Review

The threat reaction that creates stage fright is because we:

• lack confidence in general

• have never performed before

• are worried what others think of us

• don't know what we are doing

True or false: The primitive part of our brains that triggers fight-or-flight has adapted to modern-day life and the types of threats we experience.

• True

• False

Which of the following is not one of the physical symptoms you may experience in fight-or-flight?

• increased blood pressure

• your pupils dilate, making it hard to see up close

• you sweat

• extra saliva in your mouth

Which of the following is not one of the physical symptoms you may experience in fight-or-flight?

• butterflies in your stomach

• your skin feels dry

• the rush of adrenaline

• shaking hands and/or feet

Which of the following is not a strategy for tricking your mind and/or body into calming down right before going on stage?

• Trust yourself. Think positive thoughts

• Breathe deeply as you stretch

• Find the mindfulness focus on your breath

• Run in place to get your blood pumping

Which of the following statements about practicing is true?

• You can "cram" to be ready for a performance

• Practicing does not affect stage fright at all

• Muscle memory kicks in even under pressure

• Muscle memory can be built up very quickly

Which of the following does not support the strategy of trust as it applies to stage fright?

• Positive thoughts about yourself as a performer

• Trusting that the accompanist will support you musically

• Knowing your ensemble is a team

• Projecting confidence to be competitive with other performers

True or false: the feeling of excitement and the feeling of anxiety can be similar.

• True

• False

Which of the following is not a psychological symptom of musical performance anxiety?

• Lack of physical sensation

• Shaking hands and feet

• A strange, false sense of calm

• Self-doubt

Which of the following is not a psychological symptom of musical performance anxiety?

• A racing heartbeat

• A sensation like you are floating

• Worry that others are doubting your ability

• Negative self-talk