Performer's Companion : A Guide to Conquering Performance Anxiety

The Performer's Companion provides musicians with tools and strategies for conquering performance anxiety. Bringing a wealth of experience in performance anxiety coaching to bear on the subject, Stohrer has written an essential text for both instrumentalists and singers, giving up-to-date information. The book approaches building performance confidence and overcoming stage fright from many angles: physical preparation, mental strategies, nurturing the artist within, optimum practicing, backstage tips and the benefit of body work, especially the Alexander Technique. Written in an intimate, conversational style, the book combines information and recommendations with gentle humor and encouragement. As a singer who has gone from paralyzing stage fright to helping others break free, Stohrer has unique insights into the process and plenty of practical solutions to offer.

Written for performers rather than psychoanalysts, The Performer's Companion has a colloquial, conversational style.

Stohrer encourages readers to think of overcoming performance anxiety as a journey as she walks through the steps she finds most useful to the process.  Considering how prevalent performance anxiety has become, this book may prove an invaluable tool to assist those hoping to reconnect with the joy of performing.

--Brian Manternach, Classical Singer Magazine

Stohrer is adamant that there is no quick fix for performance anxiety; instead, the musician embarks on a journey of self-exploration to find ways to alleviate stage fright.  She offers guidance through the process.

The volume offers valuable pre-performance tips.  While some seem self-evident, it is a credit to Stohrer's expertise as an instructor that she does not overlook the obvious.

She neatly encapsulates her knowledge in this slim volume. . .this book is an accessible and affordable resource for those struggling with stage fright. . .

--Debra Greschner, NATS Journal of Singing