In the world of music, the pressure to perform flawlessly can be daunting, even for seasoned musicians. I had the privilege of assisting a gentleman on the brink of retirement who, despite a lifetime love for playing the violin, was grappling with performance anxiety as he prepared to rejoin an orchestra.
He had taken a hiatus from orchestral playing due to the demands of his career. Though he continued playing at home, the prospect of playing with a group triggered overwhelming anxiety. Fear of making mistakes in the presence of fellow musicians was hindering his ability to fully enjoy the musical experience with others.
Having successfully used hypnotherapy to quit smoking during his working years, the client approached me with the hope that it could once again work, this time alleviating the performance anxiety that threatened to mar his return to orchestral playing.
His goal was clear: to boost his self-confidence and eliminate the anxiety associated with playing in an orchestra. He expressed confidence in his individual playing abilities but was apprehensive about the added pressure of performing with a group.
Recognising the power of tactile association between a musician and their instrument, I encouraged the client to bring his violin and bow to our sessions. These items served as tactile anchors during our hypnotherapy sessions.
Holding the bow, we established positive associations, linking the feel of the instrument to a surge of confidence and excitement that would accompany playing among fellow musicians.
Over the course of three consecutive weekly sessions, the client's confidence and self-belief steadily grew. The structured approach of weekly sessions were requested by the client to align with his goal of playing in an upcoming orchestra rehearsal.
Finally, the day of the orchestra rehearsal arrived. The client, pleased to share his success, enthusiastically reported a positive experience. Notably, he shared that the anxiety that once plagued him in the lead-up to the event had dissipated. Instead, he felt a mix of nerves and excitement, showcasing a significant shift in his mindset.
By addressing the unique concerns of the client and utilising tangible tools such as his violin and bow, we were able to rebuild his confidence and pave the way for a fulfilling return to orchestral playing. Are you a musician who has put your passion on hold due to performance anxiety? Consider exploring hypnotherapy as a tool to enhance your confidence and reclaim the pleasure of performing.
Don't let anxiety hold you back from pursuing your musical passions. Embrace the opportunity to play with others and rediscover the joy of making music together.