Fear of Expression: A Mixed Method Analysis of the Causes of Music Performance Anxiety in Improvising Classical, Jazz and Cross-Genre Tertiary Percussionists
During this dissertation, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of myself as a musician, and as a person. Observing artistic practice in comparison to data from other percussionists has been an eye opening and a new learning experience. My journey, as recorded in a reflective journal, shows a change of focus from achieving aesthetic desires to prioritising personal health and artistic satisfaction. A change of attitude has adjusted my approach to music practice and performance. The research project has assisted this positive change, and I hope the research that I’ve gathered here can relate and help other musicians. To conclude, I’d like to leave you with this thought inspired by my counsellor, “What is driving your choices, thoughts and behaviour? Is it passion and love or fear?”
Laugh, Love, Live without Fear of Expression!
Anna x