Biofeedback Training, Selected Coping Strategies, and Music Relaxation Interventions to Reduce Debilitative Musical Performance Anxiety

Author(s): Pratt, R. R., Maughan, M. L.

Journal/Book: International Journal of Arts Medicine. 1993; 2: pp. 7-15.

Abstract: Performance anxiety or stage fright is a widespread problem among musicians. An integrative approach involving biofeedback training, selected coping strategies, and music relaxation interventions may significantly reduce music studentsÕ debilitative performance anxiety before performance situations. Subjects in an Experimental Group and a Waiting-list Control Group experienced (a) six sessions of individual biofeedback training consisting of electromyograph (EMG) and skin temperature training and (b) instruction in selected coping strategies during six group meetings and coinciding practice of the strategy with sedative music during individual biofeedback training. A significant difference was found between the Experimental Group and the Waiting-list Control Group on the State Anxiety Scale (p=.001) completed before studentsÕ music lessons (1st and 6th week). Following treatment for both the Experimental and Waiting-list Control Groups, a significant reduction of debilitative anxiety was found on the Facilitating Anxiety Scale (p=.001), the Debilitating Anxiety Scale (p=.004), the State Anxiety Scale (p=.002), and the Trait Anxiety Scale (p=.001) completed before studentsÕ fall 1991 and winter 1992 jury performances.

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