Danielle M. Hartman

Friday, August 11, 2023 by Danielle M. Hartman | Performance

Many of you may not have ever performed in a recital or solo situatuon before.  Here are some good tips I have gathered to help you prepare.

Dress nicely.   This does not have to be fancy, but make sure that whatever you wear helps you feel confident to stand up in from of others and sing.  If people are talking more about what you wore, than how well you sounded, you may not have chosen wisely.

Practice with your accompanist/collaborative musicians.  Your accompanist (collaborative pianist) needs to practice with you.  This helps everyone,  and insures that the music and the composer’s intentions are honored.   Some situations, like an audition might not provide for rehearsals with the accompanist, but if you rehearse with other accompanists before an audition, it will still help you if you haven’t had a chance to rehearse with accompanist for that occasion.  In addition, if you have other musicians collaborating with you, you must practice with them sufficiently.

Accept your applause.   Even if you feel it is the worst you’ve ever sung, you should be gracious to those who took the time to listen to you!  Bow.  Generally, with your head down, and not looking at the audience.  Try not to acknowledge in your expression or demeanor if you feel that you did poorly.   Most of the time, no one in the audience will know that you missed a beat or forgot a word, but they will know if you make an awful face.

Communicate tempo.   In some instances, you will need to remind the collaborative pianist of your tempo. Take a moment to think about your proper tempo by recalling a phrase or two in your mind, then speaking the rhythm to your accompanist.  If, as you are singing, the tempo seems too fast or too slow, you can move the tempo, and the accompanist will follow you.  Do not try to follow the accompanist, as they are watching and waiting for you.  You are the leader.

Stand where your accompanist can see and hear you.  Generally, at a recital/concert, the singer might stand in the “crook” of the piano, if it is a grand.  This is the curvy part on the right hand side of the piano.  This location offers a good support from the piano, and allows for good communication. 

Be prepared.   Make sure that you have warmed up your voice sufficiently.  Warm-up should occur before the presentation, and not during another person’s performance while back stage.  If you are using music, make sure it is in a binder, and in the proper order.

Be kind.   Everyone has worked hard for their presentations.  Every student comes from a different level of experience and ability.  Support each person’s efforts with applause and positive affirmations.

Have fun!  Your audience will enjoy the performance most if they feel that you are enjoying the performance.