Transcript Preparing for Competition

Preparing for Competition
Some thoughts and ideas
Murray Henderson
Competition Preparation
Or more accurately:
The art of performing to capacity in
public when under pressure.
Five Main Categories
• 1) Technique
• 2) Musicality
• 3) Sound
• 4) Tutor & self-assessment
• 5) Mental Preparation
Five Links in the Chain
technique:
musicality:
sound:
tutor/self assessment:
mentality:
TECHNIQUE
• Flawless
• Practice chanter work
• Slow & build strong foundations
• Step ladder
• Consistency
• Appropriate material
Record and assess
MUSICALITY
• Clear round…
• Good music will always have punctuation
• Limitation of the bagpipe
• Colours
• A performer who is at ease with the music, will always sell the package
better
Record and assess
SOUND
• Steadiness & trueness
• Strength
• Solo sound
• Knowing your instrument
• Never be afraid to change reeds
Record and assess
TUTOR + SELF-ASSESSMENT
• The importance of a good tutor
• Regular tuition
• Record lesson/make notes after lesson
• Learn set tunes early
MENTAL PREPARATION
• Mentally strong due to confidence
• Previous 4 steps are secure
• Knowing not hoping
• Visualise the event
• Love the moment and have no fear
Poorly Prepared
=
Properly Prepared
=
Secure
• Locked in
SUMMARY
• Smart preparation = consistent performance
• Consistent performance = confidence
• Confidence = relaxed playing
• Relaxed playing = ENJOYMENT
• ENJOYMENT = HAVING FUN & MAKING GOOD MUSIC
And maybe even the odd prize!!
ENJOY YOUR MUSIC