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To: "VOCALIST" <vocalist>
Subject: Re: Fear of singing
Date sent: Tue, 4 Jan 2000 15:14:47 -0000
Organization: American College Health Foundation
Send reply to: VOCALIST <vocalist>


I consider myself an "expert" on fear of singing. A long story but I've been battling the problem for years. Many factors are involved, including an inherited tendency to be a nervous wreck most of the time anyway! The suggestions so far are right on. May I add that one of the key factors
here is expectations. Start singing in venues where there are none, whether from you or the audience. I'm not suggesting you not practice and give your very best but find a situation where you feel it's okay to not be perfect. (Is there such a place for some of us?)

Nursing homes are a great place to start. I once sang at a local home and in the middle of my performance, a man and woman started to argue. Of course, they were both hard of hearing so they almost drowned me out. But, it kept my mind off of me and that is the key!

Other suggestions: Offer to sing for children in a nursery school or lead songs in a Sunday school. Sing for kids or anyone at a hospital. Do you have a friend who will sing with you? That would help get your mind off your own performance.

The least nervous people are those who really don't care. Unfortunately, most of us do care and that's where we get into trouble. That's why it's good for children to begin performing early to get over the fear.

Sing anywhere and as often as you can and you will see a noticeable difference. You need to start somewhere and just tell yourself, I'll probably sound awful, and my hands and knees will shake but that's okay because next time it won't be quite as bad. Don't fight the fear. Just allow it to
happen and don't give it anymore power than it already has.

Your voice is a gift from the Creator. Use it.

Best wishes!

Marthea