Stage Fright Problem Music related, I need to have my problem fixed by the 10th

Question:

Stage Fright Problem Music related, I need to have my problem fixed by the 10th if possible...?

I am going to a solo and ensemble competition on the 10th when I am to preform a solo on my trombone and I have the worst case of stage fright ever. Even before I get to whever I have to play by myself I start to get nervous, my heart begins to race and then I begin shaking to the point where my tone completely goes away. Does anyone have any suggestions on how I can get over this fear of playing by myself by the 10th? I know I can play the music well but most of the time, even when I can play the music perfect, my stage fright still kicks in.

Any suggestions are welcome. :) Thank you!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: As a fellow trombone player, maybe I can help. You need to play LOUDER! It sounds so simple maybe even stupid, but I think it will help. I once was where you are now, and I wish I had taken this advice then. If you practice in a practice room, consciously think, "I want everyone to hear me." This is going to do 3 things for you:

1. You will pull yourself outside your comfort zone. By facing your fear when you practice, you'll move closer to overcoming your stage fright.

2. When you play loud (and use good air support), you will play with a fuller, richer tone. This will help cover any warbles in your tone if your nervous.

3. Loud for trombone equals confidence. The best trombone players I know will often play very loud and are very confident! Confidence will help you to overcome this fear.

Now if your playing loud and your tone is splitting and cracking, you need to use more air support. And to clarify, I'm not saying to ignore dynamics. I say play the softs at the same volume or even softer, but play the louds with gusto! Once you figure out the air support, everything will click.

You have 8 days, so practice and practice again louder. I wish you the best of luck.