Will I have to give up my dream?

Question:I'm a classical pianist and recently have had a bout of severe nervousness when performing. My hands begin to shake uncontrollably and I am unable to play the piece as well I can. I noticed that when I had to play in front of a crowd of about 400 people I wasn't nervous at all; however when I play in front of a group of about 6 of 7 or my peers I become incredibly nervous and start shaking--which leads me to think it's psychological. I've been playing for about 18 years, and this has just recently started happening to me for about the past 4 years. Any ideas on how I can combat this? I've heard some artists are taking pills to keep them calm, has anyone else done this and did it work? Thanks!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I'm a classical pianist and recently have had a bout of severe nervousness when performing. My hands begin to shake uncontrollably and I am unable to play the piece as well I can. I noticed that when I had to play in front of a crowd of about 400 people I wasn't nervous at all; however when I play in front of a group of about 6 of 7 or my peers I become incredibly nervous and start shaking--which leads me to think it's psychological. I've been playing for about 18 years, and this has just recently started happening to me for about the past 4 years. Any ideas on how I can combat this? I've heard some artists are taking pills to keep them calm, has anyone else done this and did it work? Thanks!

I don't think you should give up the dream. Not at all.
I agree with Alice and the last poster above me. I wouldn't take pills either. I would try alternative medicine and herbs. :)

Well thats like Kelly Clarkson. Shes not nervous when shes performig around a bunch of people but if its abou 3 people she gets nervous. I dont knw how its like that. I dont think you should give up your dream like that.

Please don't give up your dream, i'm sure you are a great musician. As a fellow musician and music fan i'd be sad if someone gave up just because they get nervous.
Have you tried a phsychologist? Also, everyone gets nervous, try and use it to your advantage. When i'm playing Bass i find the nerves can add to the emotional content of the piece, which is always more important than robotically turning out technically perfect pieces.

hi! im a violinist myself. maybe we can play along some time.. hahahah! i think the pills work, but i strongly advise you not to take those! im tempted but im fighting. i think it has side effects. good luck!

Look at things such as mediation, yoga, etc. You need to find that inner place from which you can play.

The drugs are only a short term solution. I suggest that you search on the internet ; google "performance anxiety musicians".

You will find good articles such as :

http://www.mostlywind.co.uk/performance_...

The pills also block the emotions. Imagine music without emotion ! Not a good idea.