by Neal Acito

Created on: April 08, 2008

Are you scared of singing in public? Don't be. Here are some ways to get over the fear.

1) PRACTICE

When astronaut Gordon Cooper was about to be launched into space, his heartbeat and respiration were normal. The reason? He had practiced the drills so many times, that he was actually bored. Practice the material you are going to perform as many times as is humanly possible. It will take the edge off the nerves and boost confidence.

2) GET THERE EARLY

Traffic can really raise your blood pressure. Give your poor heart a break and bring things down a little. It also gives you a chance to check the stage and feel more confident about the venue.

3) MINGLE WITH THE CROWD

There are those who don't like to even look at the crowd until they hit the stage. That's fine if you're playing the Enormodome. If you're in a small venue, however, you might want to socialize a little. You're bound to have friends there and, even if you don't, you might make some.

4) VISUALIZE SUCCESS

Don't visualize the crowd in their underwear! Visualize yourself giving a great performance!

5) THE SHOW MUST GO ON

Don't worry about the things you can't control. If the mike goes out in the middle of your performance, it's not a tragedy. In fact, it's a lucky break. After the problem gets fixed, the audience is going to love you for being such a trooper.

6) CLEANSING BREATH

Take in a deep breath, then blow it out. When you do, imagine that you are blowing out all your nervousness.

7) WARM UP

Never hit the stage cold. Find a place backstage where you can go through your routine. Some people do scales, others run through the entire set. Whatever it is that you do, you'll build confidence knowing that your instrument is tuned and ready.

8) SMILE

This is supposed to be fun, right? Focus on the fun part of the experience. Smile, laugh, enjoy yourself.

9) CHIN UP

It's always better to sing to the crowd and make eye contact. However, a case of nerves may get the best of you. The worst thing you can do is look down at the stage. If you can't face the crowd, sing above them. Raise your chin up and pick a point at the back of the audience. You'll project better and it will LOOK like you are singing to them even when you aren't.

And most importantly-

10) DON'T USE ANY MIND ALTERING SUBSTANCES!

You need to be in control. Having an adult beverage will only make you sloshy. It won't make you any better. It will also muddy up your vocals.

Now, AFTER, the show, that's another story.

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