Update!!

[RockyRoad]

I just thought I'd tell everyone that I am doing much better in science!! My teacher says that if I keep up the excellent work for the rest of the quarter, then I will get a 90 or above!! I'm soo happy!
But I have a question too..
In orchestra I am getting an 85 but I am good at my instrument so I feel that is not a right grade for me, but I know why I got it. I really mess up on my playing tests. And it is because she makes us play by ourselves in front of nobody but her. I hate it because I am one of those people who prefers to play in front of the group than alone. So this week I was so prepared for tis test and practiced for weeks, yet, I messed up so bad. Almost none of the notes were right and I missed the slurs for I was trembling the whole time. My teacher knows of my fear because she asked me if I wanted to play my other playing test in front of everyone so I agreed and got an 100 and played wonderfully. Has anyone else ever had a fear like this because it is pulling down my grade and I want to do good because soon she may put me in last chair when I play fine in regular orchestra! Can anyone reccomend anythng I could do to ease my worriness(is that even a word?)?

PS- this is the teacher that is mean and gave me detention once for one little reason I forgot my music. She could have just let me sit out, geez.

[Nomilynn]

Maybe you can just pretend that you have the audience you prefer? I think it's a case of mind over matter. If you pump yourslef up for it, I'm sure you can do great!!

[ownerof3dogs]

I am glad here you are doing so well in science. Thats is my favorite class(Bio)Keep up the good work Britt

[Cookiebaker]

Hey Britt, about the stage fright business, I have found that the worst part is in the first 30 seconds. When you are first starting to play, take a few seconds to concentrate on your breathing. Breathe slow and easy. If you *pant pant pant* you just make yourself get more worked up. Zone in on yourself & instrument like there's nobody else around, and play for the joy of playing. Not because you are trying to impress anybody. Best of luck to you!

[ramanth]

Congrats on the Science grade.

I never was in band class but my best friends were. They were always nervous about performing their tests in front of the teacher.

I guess the only advice I can give is to not look at the teacher when you perform... imagine that there is a group there behind you watching you. Concentrate and play.

Best of luck.