Posted by PJ on May 21, 2001 at 14:35:33:
as performers, we all have to deal with varying degrees of nervous energy during a performance, but some of us have a heightened sense of performance anxiety that is hard to convey to others if they don't share a similar experience. It's not something rational, but it unfortunately affects the quality of playing and the enjoyment of the music. For no apparent reason, sometimes I feel more physically tense than others, and even if I'm very positive about a performance, I can still have a momentary adrenaline surge/"panic attack" that is not pleasant to experience. I love playing my instrument and would like to overcome this. If anyone has been able to successfully deal with this obstacle, your insight will be greatly appreciated.
post anonymously if you'd like, but no jokes please.