In January the fantastic Kelle Bryan popped in to BIMM Brighton to give a masterclass on improving performance. It was so good we just had to ask Kelle to write a blog post, to share her knowledge with everyone who couldn’t make the masterclass.
1. Know Your Audience
Ever heard of the phrase “different strokes for different folks”?
Well it’s crucial to know who your audience are. There is a psychology attached to each gig or performance. For example, when we were touring it was always essential to know the culture and practises for that country or region as that simple lack in preparation could end in devastating results. In some countries it is offensive to chew chewing gum, or wear jewellery that depicts a certain religion. So with one oversight of wardrobe choice, you have immediately alienated your audience.
This research will assist you to choose the right set list, set the tone for the performance and get it right!
Research your venue and audience:
- General Age
- Social make up, trends etc
- Who last played there
2. Private Rehearsal
Private rehearsal is vital. You need to be so rehearsed that when you get on the stage you have already worked through as many pitfalls as possible. How does my voice react under pressure or anxiety? Does my outfit choice work for my audience (who you now know) and am I comfortable in it? What does my performance look like from the back, side, all angles? Is your venue played in the round? Record your performance on your phone, play it back, check vocals and what your face is doing. Are you communicating with your audience?
3. “When All’s Said and Done”
Know what you want to leave your audience with and how you want them to feel. What is your agenda here? It’s important to know your agenda so that you will know when you have achieved it. It shouldn’t be dependent on audience reaction or outside feedback. The agenda should be achievable, measurable and dependent upon you, for example my agenda is:
- Prove to myself that I can do it
- Give the best performance possible
- Achieve an applause at the end
- Be rebooked at that venue
- Sell a CD
- Increase social media following
These are just examples, but they are achievable, measurable and dependent upon you.
Question? How do I measure the success of my performance? If you’ve got a video or footage of your taped rehearsal, you can use this to make a realistic comparison. The fact that you would have completed the performance means that you can do it!
