Overcoming Performance Anxiety Among Music Undergraduates

This study was carried out in January - April 2011 in the Faculty of Music of a local public university. The objectives of this study were to determine the performance anxiety level among music undergraduates, and to identify proactive ways to reduce the anxiety effects. Survey questionnaires were distributed; followed by interviews on selective respondents in the faculty. Analysis was done using SPSS V16 and transcribing the interview scripts. Findings of the study suggested that every individual music undergraduate encountered performance anxiety. A majority of the respondents exhibited some level of performance anxiety regardless of diploma or degree levels. The performance anxiety level was evident regardless of age, years of music study and experiences. This study found the proactive approaches to reduce performance anxiety are: praying, breathing and relaxation, accumulation of prior experiences, adequate practices and mental readiness to perform. These approaches seemed to build up the students' confidence and sustain the abilities during performance delivery, and also help reduce the inner anxiety throughout the live performances. In conclusion, performance anxiety is a common phenomenon and the anxiety level differs among music students. This study suggested that the music students have to undergo some training programs that can develop personal confidence, enhance motivation and skills in managing stage fright, proper breathing techniques and body communication. A further in-depth research is also recommended to engage more respondents among music professionals and to ascertain psychological techniques on ways to overcome performance anxiety.