Tick. Thud. Tick. Thud.
Can the audience hear that?
The sound of my heart beating syncronously with the metronome
I hope not. Because all I hear is the simultaneous thud/tick of nerves.
Dont show your nerves
Can the audience see that?
The sweat that's accumulated on your palms
I hope not. Because all I feel is a cold slimy instrument in you hands. Slipping like butter.
Can the audience feel that?
That frantic look you're giving everyone
I hope not. Because angst and apprehension don't go over well with spectators.
Just don't show your nerves.
Relax.
And take some deep breaths.
Inhale, tick, thud, exhale, tick, thud, inhale, tick, thud, exhale tick, thud
Inhale, tick, exhale, tick, inhale, tick, exhale
Inhale, exhale, inhale, exhale
Inhale, *play