Performance anxiety and an analysis on the effects of associated stress problems experienced by pianists

The aim of the study is to identify and evaluate the stress problems experienced by pianists due to performance anxiety. The study includes the recommendations in terms of decreasing performance anxiety and stress in line with the results of the study. These recommendations could help not only the pianists but also other musicians. It is believed that the work is important in terms of being a beneficial soruce for more people. The data of the study were collected by a semi-structured interview method, a qualitative research method. Totally 15 professional pianists between the ages of 18-35 who are studying and already completed their education in an undergraduate and postgraduate program in the department of piano were interviewed as part of the study. The study was limited with 15 participants and it has been assumed that the examples reflect the general. The interviews questions were prepared by the researcher and the interwiews were recorded with the consent of the participants. Participation was voluntary and the identifications of the participants were not revealed. According to the results of the study, it has been noted that although anxiety levels are different, performance anxiety is a problem experienced by many musicians and personality traits cause to be prone to anxiety. It was found that the physical, mental and emotional changes due to the anxiety and stress can negatively affect individuals and their performances. The most important fact to cope with all kinds of negative feelings and thoughts is to have healthy and conscious psychology. It is believed that individuals should find the methods that will be beneficial for themselves. In addition they apply the methods apply to guide themselves positively and minimize stress and anxiety.