Do you find yourself experiencing Performance Anxiety before (or even during) your time on stage? This episode’s guest Mel Toy understands how what some may call “stage fright” or “nerves” can limit the performance enjoyment of both up-and-coming and established singers.As a vocal coach and researcher, Mel doesn’t just help singers develop their technique. She offers tailored sessions on Performance Rehabilitation where singers develop strategies to counteract performance inhibitions and perform with greater confidence. Listen as Mel covers the reasons why certain people experience performance anxiety and how negative childhood experiences can manifest in detrimental ways later in life. Learn how voice teachers can cultivate a safe space to connect with your lessons in a positive way. And discover how performance anxiety can affect people at all levels of success — but also be managed with the proper techniques. In this episode, you’ll learn:(3:37) How a meeting at an IVA conference inspired Mel to pursue a Masters in Psychology and study performance anxiety. (7:45) How we classify “performance anxiety,” “nerves,” and “stage fright.” (12:05) The different reasons why certain people are more prone to performance anxiety than others.(13:49) How negative childhood experiences can manifest as performance anxiety later in life.(17:06) How teachers can tailor their language, lessons, and workspace to make students more receptive to negative feedback.(18:00) Why encouraging students to try different techniques (as opposed to pointing out what they’re doing “wrong”) can aid in growth.(19:14) The different “selves” that we present when we interact with others — and ourselves.(23:40) How to manage student expectations when the reality doesn’t meet their desired goal.(26:04) The power of positive performing experiences.(27:50) How pre-performance routines can encourage anxiety — and why breaking these routines can help manage anxiety.(29:43) That performance anxiety can happen to people at all levels of success — not just beginning singers.(31:51) Why focusing on what you love about singing goes a long way in helping you manage fears and enjoy performing.Hire Mel for her performance rehabilitation services or vocal coaching by visiting her website and follow her on LinkedIn, and Instagram.Download Mel’s IVA webinar, “Performance Anxiety: The Personal and Social Influences” from our website (and be sure to check out all the other awesome webinars available there!)And don’t forget to check out Heather’s TED Talk, “Chase the Joy — And Sing!”.If you’ve been enjoying our guest list so far, be sure you check out all our episodes all by following us on the Vocal Advancement Podcast and subscribing to our YouTube channel! Is there a teacher, performer, or researcher you think would make a great guest on our show? Email us at [email protected] and let us know!About the Institute for Vocal AdvancementThe Institute of Vocal Advancement (IVA) was created to provide voice teachers with a support network to provide you with the best teaching tools and strategies to advance your career. Our trainers teach from the empathic mindset, showing you how to improve your own teaching style.Check out our webinars in our list of upcoming events and learning how our Teacher Training Programs can help advance your career. Use the code “iva20percent” to get 20% off your first year’s course membership fee!

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