The exams are just around the corner and you've been practising for this for MONTHS. Now, the last hurdle is, how can you get through the exam and NOT screw up? You've probably done all the necessary preparation for the exam, so now we'll share some tips and tricks for the exam day itself instead
Make it a performance
Focus on the music in itself and make it YOUR show. Yes, be it an exam or a performance, you're set to be judged by your audience. You'll be surprised that you'll play MUCH better when you view it as a performance instead of an exam!
You've worked hard enough the past months, it's show time now so don't be shy or let the nerves overcome you.
2. WARM UP BEFORE THE EXAM
Run through a couple of scales and technical exercises to get your fingers loosened up. We do not suggest going through the whole program to avoid over-practicing and wasting stamina. BUT if your programme is short and you feel better with running the program once through, go ahead! Different methods work for different individuals so go with what makes you feel most comfortable and confident for the exam.
You may also want to do some body movements to help loosen your body. Walk around the room or stretch your body to shake off those nerves.
3. BE EARLY
The last thing you want to do is to rush to the exam, arriving breathless and flustered. Be there early, settle down and get yourself prepared for the exam.
4. SMILE
As simple as that. No matter how nervous you get, just a simple smile may just tone down the nerves and calm you down for a bit.
Once the examiner greets you by the door, SMILE and greet your examiner. Whatever tension you have been feeling will slowly fade away. Also, it's just plain rude to not smile and greet somebody you meet for the first time.
5. sing in your head
As silly as it sounds, take a moment, draw a few DEEP BREATHS in, and sing the first few bars in your head before you start playing. This will help you to focus and set your mind to the right mood of the piece. Besides, we have the tendency to play faster than usual when we are nervous. Thus, when you think of the piece, you are pacing the piece in its actual tempo. We don't want to start playing and adjust our tempo halfway through the piece.
6. make yourself feel comfortable for the performance
By that, we mean - make any necessary adjustments to your instrument so you'll be comfortable to play. (Eg: adjusting the height of the piano bench, wiping the piano keys before starting etc..)
7. have fun - it's your show
Be in the moment, listen to your playing and indulge in YOUR music! Let the music encompass you, not the thought or nerves about the examination. If you make a mistake, let it go and carry on. Don't harp on it and let it affect the rest of your programme.
Just have fun! If you can't bring yourself to enjoy your own music, what makes you think your audience will enjoy what you play?
