If you are a singer, actor, dancer, instrumentalist, or anyone who faces auditions or performances regularly, this blog goes out to you. I was and still am a professional singer and actor. I’ve performed with major symphony orchestras and opera companies, and I also spent a year and a half on Broadway—first as an understudy before taking over a lead role. I don’t tell you this to brag; I tell you so you understand that this is a letter to my younger self just as much as it is to you. I am sharing what I have learned over the years in my career, what I have learned in coaching others for the last decade, and overall, what I wish someone had shared with me long ago.
I recently returned from a coaching residency in Switzerland, where I had the privilege of working with singers and pianists from all over Europe on their mindset. We focused a lot on their mindset around auditioning and performing, and on the nerves that show up uninvited. We talked about how lonely a career as a performer can be some days, and how important it is to have people you can talk with about your experiences. One of the most amazing things was that I was able to have individual sessions with all the artists in the days leading up to a live audition, sit in on the auditions, observe them receiving feedback from the judges (two opera directors and an agent), and then meet with them again the day after the auditions. It was such a valuable experience for our students, and I wish every singer, actor, and dancer could have that opportunity.
The setting was a small town in Switzerland, in particular an old church with two buildings to house the young artists and the faculty. The setting was idyllic and the music was beautiful, but what struck me most wasn’t the scenery or even the sheer talent gathered there. What was encouraged by the faculty throughout the experience and really stood out was the way these artists supported one another: singer cheering for singer, pianists sharing strategies, vulnerability and encouragement exchanged in equal measure—and most of them didn’t know anyone else when they first arrived.
The Performer’s Mindset: Auditioning and Performing
If you’re a singer, actor, dancer, instrumentalist, or anyone who faces auditions (or performances) regularly, you know (just as I do) how difficult the process can be. We all know those nerves—the tight chest, the racing thoughts, the feeling that every note or movement is being judged not just by a panel, but by anyone in the room or even out in the hall. We might begin to imagine what a judge’s movements, gestures, or whispers mean, and let’s face it—more often than not we naturally imagine a meaning that isn’t positive. We also can fall into the trap of seeing our peers as competition. Even seasoned professionals feel this, because nerves don’t magically disappear with experience. However, our mindset can transform how we meet them.
It’s tempting to think of auditions and performances as tests, binary outcomes that measure worth or talent. But what if you flip the script? Every audition and performance is really a chance to share your unique art, is it not? Imagine stepping into the room not with the pressure to “pass” but with the mindset of generosity—a chance to give something real, honest, and beautiful. A chance to share what you love to do.
The anxiety is real, and it will visit even the best of us. The difference-maker is mindset.
- Focus on the process, not just the outcome.
- See nerves not as fear, but as excitement—the mind can’t distinguish between the two.
- Remember, you are there to share something only you can share.
Whenever I coach performers—especially around auditions—l always return to these truths:
- “I am here to share my gift, not to earn my worth.”
- “This is an offering of who I am, not a test of my value.”
- “Every audition is another chance to do what I love most, for myself first.”
Mindset isn’t magic, but it’s a daily practice. Instead of striving for “no nerves,” aim to turn those nerves into creative fuel. Celebrate courageous attempts, not just wins. Keep investing in rehearsal for your mind, just as you do for your music, movement, or lines. You’ll be amazed by the difference a mindset shift can make.
Auditioning and Performing Don’t Need to Be Solo Journeys
One of the biggest lessons from my time in Switzerland—and from countless sessions with artists—is this: Our journey is not a solo act.
Creativity flourishes where community is real, not where genius is isolated. The myth of the lonely artist only serves to make the process lonelier and more difficult.
When we show up for one another—celebrating breakthroughs, helping process tough feedback, or lending a listening ear when nerves run high—everyone wins. I watched shy aspiring singers blossom in confidence, not just because of talent or preparation, but because they were buoyed by the honest encouragement around them.
Who’s On Your Team?
- Who can you text after a tough audition—win or lose?
- Who listens without judgment, reminding you why you love what you do?
- Who cheers for your courage and your dreams, even while challenging you to grow?
If you don’t have your circle yet, start building it: one conversation, group chat, or rehearsal at a time. Be a resource for someone else first—and watch how much quicker they are to reach out or respond when you need support as well.
Do It Because You Love It
In the swirl of audition stress or performance pressure, never lose sight of the real reason you do this: because you love it. The truest reward is found in sharing and creating not just getting the job, the solo, or the “yes.”
Root for yourself. Root for others. Over time, that’s what leads to real resilience, and real joy in the life of a performer.
If you’d like to explore more ideas, or need help transforming your audition or performance mindset, let’s connect.
Who’s on your team? Who are you rooting for? What’s one step you can take this week to strengthen both your community and your mindset?
Matthew Walley
Mindset Coach and Founding Partner
Inside Outlooks Coaching and Consulting
info@insideoutlooks.com
