Preparing for Competition

Some thoughts and ideas Murray Henderson

Competition Preparation Or more accurately: The art of performing to capacity in public when under pressure.

Five Main Categories •

1) Technique

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2) Musicality

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3) Sound

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4) Tutor & self-assessment

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5) Mental Preparation

Five Links in the Chain technique: musicality: sound: tutor/self assessment: mentality:

TECHNIQUE • Flawless • Practice chanter work • Slow & build strong foundations • Step ladder • Consistency • Appropriate material Record and assess

MUSICALITY • Clear round… • Good music will always have punctuation • Limitation of the bagpipe • Colours • A performer who is at ease with the music, will always sell the package better Record and assess

SOUND • Steadiness & trueness • Strength • Solo sound • Knowing your instrument • Never be afraid to change reeds Record and assess

TUTOR + SELF-ASSESSMENT • The importance of a good tutor • Regular tuition • Record lesson/make notes after lesson • Learn set tunes early

MENTAL PREPARATION • Mentally strong due to confidence • Previous 4 steps are secure • Knowing not hoping • Visualise the event • Love the moment and have no fear

Poorly Prepared =

Properly Prepared = Secure • Locked in

SUMMARY • Smart preparation = consistent performance • Consistent performance = confidence • Confidence = relaxed playing • Relaxed playing = ENJOYMENT • ENJOYMENT = HAVING FUN & MAKING GOOD MUSIC And maybe even the odd prize!!

ENJOY YOUR MUSIC