On Stage Nerves? First Drumming Gig!

I have my first gig coming up soon and I'm scared that I'm just going to be too nervous to perform. That I'm going to start freezing up or my palms are going to be sweaty and the sticks will slip out of my hands.

How do you control these nerves?

Thanks

ANSWER

Hi--

First of all, SOME of that nervousness is to your advantage because it will sharpen your senses and make you more alert. That is a GOOD thing during a performance.

As for your fears of sweaty hand and dropping sticks, think of it this way: Even if it happens (and it probably WON'T), would it be such a major
crisis? Just pick up another stick from your bag (you Do keep one hooked to your drum set--right?) and go right on playing. No live performance is EVER perfect.

One thing that has always helped my "stage nerves" is to get totally involved in the music--become part of the music. The less you think about YOURSELF and the more you concentrate on the music, the less nervous you will be.

Write back and let us know how it went.

Best Wishes,
Lynne