Beginner Singing Techniques - Getting Over Nerves

Getting over nerves is a huge hurdle for many beginner singers. While there is no "One size fits all" approach to getting over the nerves, here are a few quick ideas for potentially helping you get through an upcoming performance.

My first method is to tense something else instead. If you're holding a microphone, grip that thing tight as heck. If you aren't walking around for your performance, curl your toes in one foot and kinda stand on them. Just don't do something clearly visible as it will look reeeeeeal dumb.

My next method is to practice performing. I don't mean just practice a song more, but easy yourself into performing by setting up a pretend stage (I've seen people just tape off a square and say its their stage) and borrowing a friend you trust to watch you perform your whole song. Plan out every step and transition. When every part of the performance is accounted for and practiced your body can run on autopilot while your brain freaks out.

My next approach to getting over nerves is to avoid looking at the audience. Its a small thing, but even if its just an audition look over the heads of the audience and not at them. It can help calm some nerves.

My last method for this post is to put yourself in situations where you're only just barely uncomfortable and taper your way into solo performing. Maybe start with joining a choir or being a stagehand for a musical. Then just the ensemble of a musical or sing a group song at karaoke. Next try a solo karaoke song at an unpopular venue or sing from the back of a church. Essentially ease your way into the more nerve wrecking type of performances.

Hopefully one of these approaches works for you. If you have questions feel free to leave a comment or send me a message. You can also sign up for a singing lesson by clicking here.