Knowing a song from beginning to end (memorization) is the most essential part of musicianship/ singing etc because without the knowledge of the song, how can one begin to perform it. Agreed? And with that comes, yes, you guessed it, practice, rehearsal, writing sessions, whatever you wish to call it. So what do I mean when I say “performance shape”?
I would assume that most people know what it means to be “in shape” physically. Of course the definition varies but for the most part it can be said that if one is in shape then, one is eating healthy and keeping the body’s cardiovascular and muscular systems in good condition with consistent mid to high level physical activity for an extended period of time. As singers, performers, musicians, it’s a no brainer to commit time, energy and often times money on rehearsing the material we plan to present. It goes hand in hand.
However and I have to be honest, most people never make the leap of faith or cross that line and subject themselves to public criticism ie: performing.
Sure, there are many reasons or what I like to call excuses why people don’t perform. Read and see if any of these sound familiar to you. “I don’t like the way I look”; “I have stage fright”; “It’s not the right kind of venue”; “I have to go to work tomorrow and it’s not on the weekend”; “I want to get paid for my talent”; and the list can go on and on. But my question to you is how can you grow as an artist without feedback? How do you know your strengths and weaknesses if you don’t allow anyone other than yourself to see them? How do you become successful at your craft? Let me be very honest and say, there is no fun in being a closet performer or a career shower singer IF one’s goal is to truly develop the artistry and perform for others to experience life through the artist’s eyes. One can and WILL miss out on the purpose of performing which is sharing through song, dance, etc.
My suggestion is if you’re out of shape then create a workout plan to get yourself in performance shape. Start small and work your way up to the big events, the big shows. Start with karaoke parties at the house. Then, maybe work in a weekly open mic, etc, etc. One must crawl before they walk and walk before they run.
Hope this food for thought helps. Try it out and good luck!
If you have any questions about this article or just want to share an advice or comment, use the comment section below. And now, a word from our sponsors…
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Thank you for reminding me. I have gotten off track through recent illnesses and re injuring my knee. I have to get back on track. Thanks again!
This is all very true thanks alot for sharing!
Thank you for that insight! I really didn’t see it that way. I used to go to karaoke 1 a week for about a year, and I used to loose because I moved around too much or I did too many runs. I used to get discouraged when the judges used to point out my weaknesses. I just stopped going. I have just been writing song, and building my studio at home. I have a producer that works with me, but I am scared of what others have to say about my music. I want to be a world class performer, but the only way to do that is to perform. I guess it’s time for me to get back out there. Everyone does have to crawl before we walk. Thank you again for the wise words, and I love the home-study program by the way. It is far more affordable than the private lessons I was paying for. I really believe I am getting more for less, because I always felt tension from the other exercises that my instructor used to give me, but your exercises free my voice, release tension, and still build more power and strength. I wish much success to you.
Be blessed,
Tanye’
Hey! I’m really new at this. I was choosen to lead at a choir performance, and though it was not requested I start to look at every good advice and singing technics I could find in order to make it a good performance. This is how I found all those great advice from AApproach. Well, now suggesting to make it an habit to performe and break through is quit something else…. Sound intersting though, I’ll start with that coming performance and see if I like it. Thank for the advice, truly hope to make it a new practice!! =D
I share your way of thinking, but i would like to improve my stage performance. i´m a funk coverband performer – lead vocal, i love it, please give some tips on making the ˝connection˝ with a crowd, i would like them to dance crazy
tnx, m
Hello Mihael,
Connecting with a crowd can be done different ways. You are a funk cover band performer you say – so there is a good chance that the crowd already knows the songs you are singing. Encourage them to sing along with you….point your mic to the crowd and tell them to sing some of your lead parts. Also, simply give all you have – we like to connect with performers who are giving all they have emotionally. It’s a vulnerable place, but it speaks volumes to the audience! It’s rewarding for everyone!
Michael W. Bryant
Aapproach Instructor