My #1 Tip for a Successful Piano Recital

When it comes to having a successful piano recital performance no one can deny the importance of consistent practice and performance rehearsal. But there’s one thing you can do that doesn’t even require a piano to enhance your success.

Bow.

That’s right, a simple bow.

It’s funny to think it can all basically depend on looking at the ground. So let’s dig deeper and you’ll understand that this one thing makes all the difference in the world.

Many concert artists have said that performance starts before you even play a single note, that it starts the moment you set foot on stage.

The moment the audience sees you.

So, everything you do before you even sit at the piano affects your piano performance (a.k.a. “stage presence”).

In the book “The Creative Habit” the author talks about “keystone” habits. This single “master” habit lays the foundation from which all other actions, plans, and strategies lead to success.

One single habit. One starting point.

So think about your bow, the way you walk to the stage, and even your posture as keystone habits. Rehearse them until it’s completely automatic, completely natural. This will be your secret weapon against nervousness.

And nobody will know but you.

In my last “How to Make Piano Practice Automatic” post I talked about making practice into a habit. So when your pre-performance routine is a habit, it becomes something familiar and something to depend on for when your nerves get the best of you.

And the opposite is also true. If you don’t feel confident when you bow (i.e. you haven’t rehearsed it enough), it can create negative momentum that spirals into a poor performance.

Also, give some serious thought to starting a keystone habit for yourself first thing in the morning. That one thing you do as soon as you wake up will set the tone for the entire day. It could be something as simple as making a cup of coffee or a quick mantra.

Do it every morning and you’ll see a difference in your day.

So what else can you do before playing that first note on the piano? Do you have a specific routine for your day?

Sharing is caring, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

As always, happy practicing!