Preparing for a Classical Performance: My Tried-and-Tested Approach

As a classical singer, one of the most important parts of my journey has been learning how to prepare for a performance. Early on, I underestimated how much mental and emotional preparation mattered—thinking that if I just perfected my technique, everything else would fall into place. But over time, I’ve discovered that preparing for a classical performance is a holistic process. It involves physical, mental, and emotional preparation, all of which work together to ensure I walk on stage feeling grounded and ready.

Here’s a breakdown of what I’ve learned through trial and error about preparing for a performance, and how each aspect contributes to delivering the best possible experience for both myself and the audience.

1. Vocal Preparation: Building a Solid Foundation

At the heart of any classical performance is, of course, the voice. Vocal preparation isn’t something that happens just a few days before the performance—it’s a long-term investment. Over the years, I’ve learned to build and maintain vocal strength through daily exercises that focus on breath control, range extension, and stamina.

In the weeks leading up to a performance, I shift my focus to the specific repertoire I’ll be performing. I break down each piece, working on challenging sections, refining my interpretation, and focusing on my breath and posture. Repetition helps me not only commit the music to memory but also build muscle memory so that when I’m on stage, I can trust my technique to carry me through.

Takeaway:

Consistent practice and vocal conditioning are essential. Preparing your voice over time builds the confidence you need on stage.

2. Mental Preparation: Visualization and Focus

One of the most transformative aspects of my preparation has been mental rehearsal. Early in my career, I didn’t realize the power of the mind in performance, but now it’s a cornerstone of my preparation process. Visualization—mentally walking through the performance from start to finish—helps me anticipate challenges, calm my nerves, and rehearse how I want to present myself on stage.

In the days leading up to a performance, I set aside time for quiet visualization. I imagine walking on stage, singing each piece, and feeling confident in my delivery. This mental preparation helps to reduce stage fright and gives me a sense of control over how I approach the performance.

Lesson Learned:

Mental preparation is just as important as physical practice. Visualizing success can help calm nerves and improve focus on stage.

3. Emotional Preparation: Embracing the Music’s Message

Classical music isn’t just about technique—it’s about emotion and connection. Each piece I perform carries a story, an emotion, or a message, and part of my preparation is making sure I connect with that emotional core. It’s not enough to sing the notes perfectly; I need to convey the feelings behind them in an authentic way.

To do this, I spend time studying the background of the pieces I’m performing, whether it’s an aria, art song, or operatic work. Understanding the context and the emotions behind the music helps me interpret it in a way that feels personal and meaningful. This emotional preparation makes the performance more genuine, which is what audiences respond to.

Takeaway:

Connecting emotionally with the music is key to delivering a compelling performance. Take time to understand the message behind each piece.

4. Physical Preparation: Staying Grounded

Performance days can be physically draining, especially when dealing with nerves or adrenaline. To prepare my body, I focus on relaxation and grounding techniques. In the hours leading up to a performance, I make sure to stretch, do some light breathing exercises, and focus on keeping my body loose and relaxed.

Breath control is also essential, so I practice deep breathing exercises to ensure I’m using my diaphragm efficiently during the performance. These small steps help me stay calm and focused, preventing tension from building up in my neck, shoulders, or chest.

What I’ve Learned:

Staying physically relaxed is crucial to managing nerves and ensuring you perform with ease. Don’t underestimate the power of breathing exercises and light stretches before going on stage.

5. Managing Nerves: Turning Anxiety into Energy

Nerves are an inevitable part of performing. I’ve learned that no matter how prepared I feel, the adrenaline will always kick in before I step on stage. Instead of trying to eliminate nerves, I’ve found that the key is to harness that energy and use it to fuel my performance.

Over time, I’ve developed strategies to manage performance anxiety, from mindfulness techniques to simply focusing on the excitement of sharing music with the audience. I remind myself that nerves are a sign that I care about what I’m doing, and I channel that energy into delivering my best performance.

Lesson Learned:

Don’t fight the nerves—use them. Turning anxiety into excitement can help transform your energy on stage.

6. Post-Performance Reflection: Growth and Gratitude

Finally, part of my preparation for the next performance happens after the last one. I always take time to reflect on how the performance went—what went well, what I could improve, and how I felt during the experience. This reflection helps me grow as a singer and prepares me mentally for future performances.

But beyond technical reflection, I also take time to practice gratitude. Performing is a privilege, and I always remind myself to be thankful for the opportunity to share music with others, no matter the outcome.

Takeaway:

Each performance is a learning experience. Take time to reflect, grow, and appreciate the journey.

Final Thoughts: My Performance Preparation in a Nutshell

Preparing for a classical performance is a multi-faceted process that goes beyond just practicing the notes. It’s about building confidence, both vocally and mentally, connecting with the emotional heart of the music, and finding ways to manage nerves and stay grounded. Over the years, I’ve learned that preparation isn’t just about perfection—it’s about being kind to yourself, trusting your process, and embracing the opportunity to grow with each performance.

Classical music has taught me that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to preparing for a performance. Each singer finds their own rhythm, their own rituals, and their own strategies for success. But what remains universal is the importance of preparation itself—because when you’re prepared, you give yourself the freedom to enjoy the moment on stage, and that’s when the magic happens.