How can feedback from peers and mentors help you overcome performance anxiety?

1 Feedback on your vocal skills

One of the benefits of feedback from peers and mentors is that they can help you identify and correct any technical issues or habits that may be affecting your voice. For example, they can point out if you are breathing properly, using the right posture, articulating clearly, or singing in tune. They can also suggest exercises, tips, or resources that can help you improve your vocal range, tone, or style. By receiving constructive feedback on your vocal skills, you can learn from your mistakes, enhance your strengths, and gain more confidence in your abilities.

3 Feedback on your performance

A third benefit of feedback from peers and mentors is that they can help you prepare and deliver a successful performance. For example, they can give you honest and specific feedback on your rehearsal, such as your song choice, your interpretation, your stage presence, or your audience engagement. They can also give you constructive and helpful feedback on your actual performance, such as your strengths, your areas for improvement, or your memorable moments. They can also share their own experiences, insights, or advice on how to deal with performance anxiety, such as relaxation techniques, visualization exercises, or positive affirmations. By receiving valuable feedback on your performance, you can improve your skills, your confidence, and your enjoyment of singing.

4 How to seek feedback

To benefit from feedback from peers and mentors, it's important to seek it actively and regularly. When doing so, choose trustworthy, respectful, and knowledgeable people who can provide honest, specific, and balanced feedback that is relevant to your goals and needs. Additionally, it's beneficial to ask for feedback before, during, and after your performance. Listen to the feedback with an open mind and a curious attitude. Don't take it personally or defensively; rather, try to understand the feedback giver's perspective and intention. Ask questions if needed for clarification or examples. Finally, use the feedback to take action and improve. Don't just collect the feedback; use it to identify strengths and weaknesses , set goals and action plans, and track progress and results.

5 How to give feedback

Feedback from peers and mentors can be an invaluable tool to help you become a better vocalist, and giving feedback can also be beneficial for your own development. To make the most of feedback, it should be honest, specific, and balanced; relevant, timely, and constructive; and respectful, supportive, and encouraging. It should be based on facts, examples, and observations; aligned with the feedback receiver's goals and needs; and focused on solutions and suggestions. Additionally, expressing appreciation, interest, and confidence in the feedback receiver can make a difference in your singing journey. So, don't be afraid to ask for and offer feedback - it can help you improve your vocal skills, mindset, and performance.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?