How can I get over stage fright?

Question

Iv'e been playing the drums now for 4 years now, and I'm gonna say it... I'm pretty damn good. One problem, I won't let anyone ever hear me play!! How can I get over this!?!

Answer 1

You don't think the greatest drummers in the world started out that way, do you? Actually, I've answered this question before and had special instructions as to how to deal with this. What you need to do is turn that stage fright into stage ENERGY. You might fall flat on your face the first time, but you shouldn't expect to be perfect the first time you are out in public. Lisa Marie Presley, Elvis's daughter didn't do so well at her debut because of stage fright, but now she does just fine after "getting used to" being on the stage. Go, and do thou likewises. And one last thing... I need a blues-rock drummer... you wouldn't happen to live in NE Wisconsin would you?

Answer 2

You have to talk to yourself. You have to tell yourself you are very good playing and you don't care what anyone else thinks. Concentrate on playing and block out your thoughts of the audience. Most of them can't play a lick on the drums. Be willing to share your talent. Encourage yourself. Start out with a small audience one or two people. See what they think, if you get good reviews go to a slightly larger group........and so on. Build up a little at a time until your confidence is better. That will make it easier to get past those first few minutes of stage fright, another clue don't make eye contact, make believe you are alone playing to that empty room. Then you won't be worrying about what the audience is thinking.
Remember that none of us are perfect, no one in the audience is either. They have plenty of faults and make many mistakes themselves.

Imagine that everyone in the audience excepts you and just loves you so much. Stage fright is self centered fear. STop thinking so much about you and more about your playing. You will just have to experiment and see what helps. Don't give up just because you are nervous. What are they going to do? What is the worst? Not clap. So what.

Answer 3

I've been playing drums for nearly 30 years, and I still get a little nervous when playing a new venue. One good thing about playing drums is that you are kind of hidden. Start by playing with or for family and friends. It just takes time. Some people never get over it and rely on "other" methods to relax. I do not recommend that, however.

Answer 4

There is no "trick" to conquering stage fright, you just have to keep playing in front of people and get use to it. I get nervous in front of small crowds because I can see all of their faces, but if I get in front of a big crowd I rock (competition dancing if you were wondering). But I'm getting better now 'cause I have to speak in front of small crowds at school. So good look, I hate to sound cliche, but practice makes perfect!