The ArtistWorks Music Series podcast is back with a new episode, this time starring cello master Mike Block on the topic of performance anxiety — what is it, and how can we deal with it? The show is available now anywhere you listen to podcasts, or you can listen now on our site. 

In the conversation, ArtistWorks CEO Patricia Butler and Block discuss all things stage fright. While it’s common to “get the jitters” before a performance, for some, the fear can be paralyzing. This often results in players avoiding the spotlight at all costs. So with this in mind, we decided to ask our artist instructors — who have performed for countless large audiences — to weigh in on the topic. What tools do they use to deal with performance anxiety?

“Imagine the worst scenario, and also the likely scenario,” Mike says. “It will include making mistakes. So just ‘go on’ after you make one.” Another helpful tip? “Focus intently on the others you are playing with if you get nervous. It’s a helpful distraction.” Needless to say, if you’ve wanted to learn how to play cello but performance anxiety has gotten in your way, this is the conversation for you.

On the ArtistWorks Music Series, Butler speaks with master musicians across all genres as they dive deep into topics like becoming a musician, playing at the professional level, and the journey of learning music. Over the coming weeks, we'll be spotlighting many artists and discussing all sorts of instruments and topics:

Things Lessons Can’t Fix: Dave Stryker & Howard Paul – Wed, Feb. 19
Things Lessons Can’t Fix: Bryan Sutton – Wed, March 4

Fan of music podcasts? Tune in for new episodes released every other Wednesday on all platforms. And don't forget to subscribe, rate and review the show.

Ready for some cello lessons? Try free cello lessons with Mike Block today.