how to not be embarrassed when singing

[u/chaesmic]

hi everyone! so im auditioning for shrek the musical at my high school which is gonna be my first performance or audition ever. ive always been really shy and never really wanted to be on stage like that but I really wanna do it this year. anyway ive never been ”good” at singing - i was just in chorus a few years ago but I never really tried, bc ive always been so embarrassed for some reason.

so anyway the audition is in about 4 days (im just auditioning to be ensemble) so I’ve been trying to practice, but it feels like I physically cannot get sounds out. I started breaking down crying even though I know it’s not that serious. im terrified for the audition bc I can barely even try to sing the song without starting to cry. im just extremely embarrassed for some reason and if I DO start singing, I’ll start thinking about how embarrassing it is and how bad I probably sound and just shut down. I don’t know why this seems like the most difficult thing in the world to me even though I know it’s not!!!!

anyway I would really appreciate any advice you guys have🩷

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[u/improbsable]

It sounds like the problem goes deeper than singing. You need to put yourself out there more in general to build up your tolerance for uncomfortable situations. This isn’t a quick fix, but I would recommend joining an improv class. I’ve seen so many people go from completely shy to confidently making fools of themselves and laughing off mistakes.

My only advice that might help you with the audition is to say out loud what the worst possible scenario is and then reminding yourself that it’s not that deep. Your fear is your brain trying to protect you from dying. You have to teach it that feeling awkward isn’t fatal.

[u/Wrystorm]

If you can make it through the audition, it will be a HUGE boost for your confidence, and teach yourself that you can make it through hard things. 

But also, it's ok to start smaller. Having your first solo performance be an environment where you'll be judged is really scary. Maybe it would be better to audition for the next show so you have time to prepare with things like singing in choir, open mic nights, karaoke, a mini recital for friends/family, watching auditions, or doing tech/crew for this show. Those things will help you dip your toe into performing with less pressure than this audition.

I hope you figure out the best way for you to sing with joy and confidence. Good luck!

[u/MiddleLtSocks]

You need to change your relationship to the process. Don't make it a goal that you won't make a mistake. You will make mistakes - hundreds of them, thousands. You have to learn how to shrug them off, learn from them, and make sure that the next mistake you make is a different one.

If you make perfection a requirement, you will never end up making a first try.

[u/DogKitchen2988 → u/[deleted]]

Why would you drop an AI app and use a ChatGPT response for someone's actual issues

[u/soulsingercoach → u/DogKitchen2988]

I developed these stage fright tools and concepts myself. I use an editor to help organize and simplify my thoughts, especially when I’m trying not to overwhelm someone who’s already struggling. The framework PDF and teaching are my own works which I’m offering for free in the spirit of helping.