Galway Fun!
I was awake way too early this morning and decided that instead of lying there passing the time until what I would call a respectable hour, I would “arise, shine” for my light had come. “Sorry Mr. Handel! ‘Tis the season, after all”, say I with a chuckle! Once a singer, always a singer!
After a cup of tea and a quick check of e-mail, I started to delete the numerous ads and other junk mail. In the process, I came across a message from a college and decided to check out the archive of live webcam concerts from the music school. Oops! Breathe! Enter stage left! My posture-police self emerged strong and mighty! Lesson: whenever we enter a space we make an impression.
You may be wondering where i am going with these observations. I do not like to criticize, but, while watching the performers I was bluntly reminded of the importance of being conscious of stance, posture, and demeanor while performing. My business is to teach professionals who require skill in presenting to colleagues or other audiences; that does include performers as well as speakers. One would expect that highly qualified and talented teacher/performers would be examples of fine stature and ease.This concert reinforced my opinion that most of us are not aware of how our demeanor may not be helping us put our best foot forward, literally. I might add that I have observed the same lack of dynamic ease in speakers at national conferences as well.
Many years ago, as a singer, I noticed how instrumental musicians, orchestral, chamber, and soloists, tend to casually walk on stage with fairly low energy. On the other hand, singers tend to enter with more energy. in fact, as singers enter there is often a bit of drama as well as that energetic sense of purpose. Because the concert I viewed this morning included a variety of artists/teachers, I was able to see many examples of playing as well as artists entering and leaving the stage. They were certainly all well trained professionals; but, for example, how much more tone and energy could have come from the cellist if she had been open in front, sitting tall, and bowing with the whole arm from the center back. How much more energy from the pretty marvelous jazz trumpet player were he not looking to the floor, head totally bent forward and down?
As if to prove my convictions, the lone singer came out dressed in black; she strode out with vibrant energy and purpose in her glittery hat and top, smiling and standing tall. I could sense a very different playful energy in the hall before and during her performance, even on webcam.
All these truths are no less so for speakers giving a presentation or any person entering a room. It is worth giving some conscious attention to how we move. With what impression do you wish to leave your colleagues or acquaintances Think about it! You WILL make an impression. Make it good!