Physical and Mental Issues in Piano Performance: The Interrelationships between Physical Tension,Performance Anxiety, and Memorization Strategies

In preparing for a concert performance, musicians arefaced with tremendous challenges. Besides adequatemusical preparation, performers need to be preparedto tackle the physical and mental stresses associatedwith the performance situations. Knowledge of injuryprevention and the nature of performance anxiety,therefore, is essential. For pianists, there is oftenan additional challenge of playing from memory. Anunderstanding of memory processes would be beneficialto the development of effective memorizationtechniques necessary for successful piano performance. In this book, the author discusses the issues ofphysical tension and injuries, overwhelmingperformance anxiety, and memorization in pianoperformance. The book demonstrates how theseseemingly separate issues are interrelated to oneanother, and how problems in one area may exacerbateproblems in another. It explains that just astensions and memory difficulties may affect musicaldeliverance, effective musical communication may helpalleviate tensions and memory problems. The authoralso offers practical solutions in dealing withphysical and mental tensions, and suggests techniquesfor music memorization.

Agnes Wan is a graduate of the Hong Kong Academy for PerformingArts, Loyola University New Orleans, the University of Iowa, andthe University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Shecurrently performs approximately ten solo piano recitalsannually, and also collaborates with other musicians regularly.