How can I insure that I have good "stage presence" while playing guitar?

Question

I think I know SOME of what to do, but I am entering a blues guitar playing contest and one of the judging criteria is "stage presence", which is a very abstract quality if you think about it. I'm interested in how others define it, or what they think it is, or how to improve it, etc. This could include many different aspects of performance, so I'm interested in hearing ANY suggestions, no matter how odd they might seem to somebody else. Thanks to all who answer! BTW: I am an experienced performer, but I really want to see this put into words because the concept really is VERY abstract and I want to do my absolute best EVERY time - thanks again!!!

Answer 1

Stage presence? You have to have the confidence to control everything that's going on, onstage. Interact with the audience. Let their reactions, or even LACK of reactions, make you do things differently. Make love to the guitar, visually. No, don't go crazy with that...geesh...!!
I've been a musician for over 30 years, and one thing I've learned and had proven to me over and over, is that most people -- around 97% of a typical audience -- listens with...Their Eyes! They have tin ears, and can't really appreciate the musical notes like you and I can, but if it LOOKS good, to them, it SOUNDS good! For the other 3%? Well, they'll either be judging you (as judges!), or wishing they were you.

Above all, relax, get over your stage fright, if you haven't already done that, and have fun with the music!!

Answer 2

Good question, just make sure you move to the music,
And don't stand in one place too long, and just feel it.

Maybe video tape yourself and ask the question, "am I entertained by this?"
That's the best way to truly get an idea of what the audience is seeing, and alot of the time, it's the guy that gets into it that seems like the best.

Watch Slash play, and you'll see what I'm talking about.

Answer 3

I think that the most important things after good guitar skills to take care of are: your movements and your face. As of my personal experience: even the subtle movements you make, like shuffling your feet or even transferring weight from one leg to another should look like you're doing it on purpose. And the face - well, you know the drill, display the music you play on your face. No one likes it when you just stare into the void :)

Take a look at Steve Vai, for example, his "Alien Love Secrets" video album is a very good example of how things should look on stage.

So it's simple: don't just stand there, move around. Maybe even consult a choreographer. And practice in front of a mirror.

Good luck!!

Answer 4

Stage presence is, simply, confidence. You cannot fake it. You have to be totally committed to performing your music and "know" your music inside and out.

I see amazing stage presence in performers who are comfortable on stage (because they know their material) and do not make me scared that they are up there. They are in control and are ready to entertain, inspire and share their talent. Stage presence means you are the leader - that you have taken your music and mapped out everything you want the audience to feel emotionally via your instrument.

If you want to do your best every time, just remember, it's always someone's first performance and someone's last performance.

Break a leg!

Answer 5

I agree with the other answers... I would just add that if you are connected to the material, this will read on your face and in your eyes. Try to see the story in your head, like a memory or a fantasy. Also, be sure to have energy, channeled in whatever blues-y way you please.. And I think confidence can make the diffference between something embarrassing and confusing to watch, and something brilliant. I hope this helps, good luck with your contest, I'm sure you'll be great!