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Date sent: Tue, 4 Jan 2000 14:10:21 EST
Subject: Re: Fear of Singing!
To: vocalist
Send reply to: VOCALIST <vocalist>

As a teenager, nerves didn't overwhelm me. Then I got to college. I
felt untalented. How can I compare to some of these voices? Studio recitals
were a nightmare for me. I was terrified to sing in front of my peers. But
I didn't stop trying. As frightened as I was, I got up and did it, even
after my teacher gave me the option to bail out one semester. That same
teacher told me that I wouldn't be able to do a senior recital. But here I
am in preparation for it right now.

In the beginning of last semester, one of the music education faculty members
informed the seniors that they would have to perform in our weekly program
meetings, one song one week. Just the thought of singing in front of my
entire program of 70+ budding musicians made my skin crawl. But I knew that
I had to do it, not because I was told to, but because I needed to do it for
myself. That day I completely surprised myself. I did okay. I wasn't
overcome by the nerves. My point is, you just have to do it. There is no
other way. How can you improve if you don't try? Make really small goals
for yourself when you are up in front of an audience. Find venues to
perform. Look for a local musical theater or opera workshop. Try studio
recitals. The nursing home is a fantastic idea. Just get yourself singing!

Best of luck to you!

Karen Paulson