[McKayla Sundberg]

When I watch someone perform calmly, I can focus on what is coming from the instrument. The music washes over me, and my focus is on what I am hearing. There is nothing else to focus on or look at. And I love that! I have watched many great performers who are “physically enthusiastic,” meaning they take visible/audible breaths, are dramatic in their gestures, move the harp back and forth a lot, etc. And their music is lovely and expressive! I can see that their actions help them! But I notice that I spend a lot of time watching and being mesmerized by them, and a little less on the music.
Then there are people who are visibly nervous when they perform… I just feel bad to see their shaky hands and eyes jumping all over the harp… I want to sit next to them and whisper “It’s ok, you’ve got this. Take deep breaths….” So I am not able to pay attention to the beauty of the music because I am internally rooting for them with my inner voice, and I can’t relax because they can’t relax!

So, calm performers are great! I bet people love to watch and listen to you play!

[Author]

Posts