The Confident Performer

Author: Dr David Rolland
Publishing Details: Heinemann, 1998
ISBN: 0325000921

This is an excellent book written in a clear, easy-to-understand manner by the psychologist Dr David Rolland. The Confident Performer's main area of concern is performance anxiety. What this has got to do with getting the most out of practice? Performance and practice are inextricably linked. What happens in practice can influence what happens during performance.

Musicians tend to spend most of their practice time develpoing physical skills and artistic concepts. Rolland argues that the mental approach to performance is just as important as the artistic and physical side:

"A great performance doesn't just happen by chance; it only happens after enormous mental, physical and artistic preparation."

The Confident Performer puts forward a number of strategies that can not only have a direct bearing on performance anxiety, but can also be useful in the practice environment. For example: goal setting, relaxation skills, and improving focus of attention. The book also contains many interesting quotes from performers past and present across the arts spectrum. These include Michael Crawford, Frederic Chopin, Janis Joplin, Alice Cooper, Steven Tyler and Pablo Casals. Areas covered also include advice on diet and exercise, and their effects on practice and performance.

Click on the book cover for purchase details