Competitions 101 ✨
Quartet Meraviglia competed in the finals of the world's largest chamber music competition (Fischoff Competition) in 2024!
Competitions are scary. Speaking from experience! But the experience it gives you through both your hard work preparing + the actual process of getting nervous before your turn/even on stage is so rewarding.
Our biggest piece of advice? Don’t fixate on winning. The real goal is to perform your best and showcase the hard work you've put in. By the time you step on stage, remember you've already accomplished something incredible. No matter the outcome, your dedication and mastery of the piece are achievements that no result can take away. 💪🎶
Embrace the experience, learn from it, and most importantly: enjoy making music! 😊
A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Find a competition
Many symphony orchestras offer Young Artist competitions, where winning may get you the opportunity to perform a piece with orchestra! Try searching up a local orchestra to start
Additionally, many competitions offer cash prizes, which can help support your musical journey 😀
2. Choose the Right Repertoire
Selecting the right piece(s) is crucial to your success. If the competition has specific guidelines, ensure that your selection adheres to those rules. Otherwise, choose a piece that highlights your strengths. If you're aggressive and love percussive pieces, choose a percussive piece (like Shostakovich Cello Concerto!!) Ideally, you want something that'll challenge you but is still within your current skill level.
Tip: Your teacher probably knows best!
3. Set a Practice Schedule/Goals
Consistent practice is crucial for any competition. Create a detailed practice schedule that balances technique, musicality, and performance readiness. Focus on sections your program that challenge you the most, and break them down into manageable chunks.
🎻Practice scales/exercises everyday to improve your overall technique (See Warm Up Routine article)
🎻Before you practice, identify what you need to work on most and how you're going to achieve what you want. Start with those sections!
🎻Try to run-through your pieces without stopping many times prior to the competition so you can practice getting tired!
4. SLOW SLOW SLOW 🐌🐌🐌
Slow down the hard sections (preferably still with metronome) to ensure precision - intonation, tone quality, and rhythmic. As you improve, gradually increase your tempo.
5. Work on Expression and Musicality
While technique is important, what'll really help bring your piece to the next level is conveying emotion and musicality. Focus on the expressive elements of your piece: dynamics, phrasing, and interpretation. If you're unsure, listen to recordings of the pros for example, but keep in mind: there is no right answer, so you definitely don't have to like/emulate exactly what they're doing.
Tip: Record yourself while playing and listen back critically. Are there areas where the music feels flat or lacking in emotion?
6. Focus on Performance
Practice performing in front of others to get used to the experience of playing under pressure. Also, treat each run-through as if it’s the real performance.
7. Prepare for the Day of the Competition
In the days leading up to the competition, try to avoid any drastic last-minute changes. Make sure your strings/bow are in good shape. Cram practice may not be the best idea- you don't want to hurt yourself and speaking from experience- it won't help as much as you'll want it to. The day before, make sure you get a good night's sleep! 💤
Tip: Prepare mentally by visualizing yourself performing confidently and perfectly. Try to stay calm and centered.
8. Stay Calm
On the day of the competition, you'll probably be really nervous. But remember nerves are a normal part of being a musician, and even the most seasoned pros feel them. Focus on the music and trust in your preparation.
Tip: Take deep breaths before you go on stage, shake your hands, maybe even jump a few times. When you're playing, just enjoy yourself and remember that the judges are on your side.
9. Reflect After the Performance
Every competition/performance is a valuable learning opportunity, so take the time to reflect on your performance. What went well? What didn't, and how can you improve that for next time?
*If your judges provide comments, make sure to read them as well!