4 Ways to Manage Performance Anxiety for Young Violinists
For many young violinists, the idea of performing in a competition can be exciting—but also nerve-wracking. Performance anxiety is common, even among advanced players, and can affect everything from technique to stage presence. The Chicago Violin Competition (CVC), now online, offers a unique way for students to manage these nerves. By preparing and recording their pieces in a comfortable environment, young musicians can build confidence and reduce anxiety—skills they’ll carry into any future live performance.
Understanding Performance Anxiety
Performance anxiety is more than pre-concert butterflies. Common signs include:
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Shaky hands or trembling fingers
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Fast heartbeat or shortness of breath
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Mental blocks or difficulty remembering passages
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Negative self-talk or fear of mistakes
Even seasoned performers experience these symptoms. Learning to manage them early is key to performing confidently.
1. The Advantage of an Online Competition
Unlike traditional live competitions, CVC’s online format allows students to:
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Record in familiar settings: Practicing at home or in a comfortable studio reduces initial nerves.
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Refine performances: Multiple takes mean students can perfect tricky passages and polish musical expression.
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Focus on artistic growth: Without the immediate pressure of a live audience, students can concentrate on their interpretation and technique.
This format helps young violinists approach real-life stage performances with more confidence.
2. Preparation Still Matters
Even in an online setting, preparation is essential:
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Practice consistently: Work on challenging sections daily.
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Simulate performance conditions: Stand up, dress formally, and play as if in front of judges or an audience.
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Record and review: Listening back helps identify areas for improvement and strengthens self-assurance.
Recording pieces repeatedly teaches students to handle mistakes gracefully and stay calm under pressure.
3. Develop Mental and Physical Routines
Performance readiness isn’t just about the fingers—it’s about the mind and body:
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Breathing exercises: Slow, deep breaths calm nerves.
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Visualization techniques: Imagine a confident performance in front of judges.
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Positive self-talk: Replace “I hope I don’t mess up” with “I’ve prepared well and can perform beautifully.”
These strategies build habits that transfer seamlessly to live stage settings.
4. Build Confidence for Future Live Performances
By competing online, young violinists gain:
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Experience in presenting music professionally
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Feedback opportunities: Judges’ comments guide growth
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Reduced stage anxiety: Performing in a comfortable environment first can make real-stage performances feel less intimidating
The skills gained from CVC recordings are a safe, practical way to practice handling nerves.
CVC 2026
Performance anxiety is a natural part of being a musician—but the online Chicago Violin Competition offers a supportive environment to manage it. By allowing students to prepare, record, and refine performances, CVC helps young violinists perform confidently, both on camera and later on any live stage.
Take advantage of this opportunity to boost confidence, refine technique, and enjoy the art of performing without the added pressure of a live audience – participate in CVC 2026 (Nov 22, 2026). See Divisions & Repertoire.