I did my very first open mic at a uke circle and it was really bad, but I really wanted to tick that box off. Don't worry, no evidence

[baconsalad]

Just posting this to note a moment in time. I've been off my anxiety meds (alcohol) for 11 months. It was amazing, my hands were shaking like crazy. I flubbed notes but mostly kept time and my voice was barely coming out because I couldn't draw air but I made it through. I've never been that physically affected by irrational fear to that extent before. People were kind and said next one will be easier.

 

[SweetWaterBlue]

I've been performing before groups a long time now, and I still get nervous before it starts. We have all also had performances that were a disaster. Oftentimes the audience doesn't even know. The more you do it, the better you do.

 

[Eggs_n_Ham]

You know this stuff! You can do it and do it with confidence! Trust your brain and your talents! congrats on your first foray! As the kids say: "you got this!"

 

[rainbow21]

Well congratulations for working up the courage to do this and succeeding. Checking it off the bucket list is big! If you continue, I expect that you will improve each time.

For me, I am a big chicken and only play at home in front of an audience of one (my TV). And I make mistakes every single time.

 

[ksiegel]

Been there, done that. It will get easier.

I think I broke out in flop sweats every time I got up solo for about the first year... Now it is just fun.

Stick with it.

-Kurt​

 

[TBB]

Wow, good for you! I’ve got a lot of respect for anyone who can overcome their anxiety and perform in front of an audience, just the thought of it brings me out in a cold sweat, even the dog makes me nervous.

 

[Farkvam]

Just posting this to note a moment in time. I've been off my anxiety meds (alcohol) for 11 months. It was amazing, my hands were shaking like crazy. I flubbed notes but mostly kept time and my voice was barely coming out because I couldn't draw air but I made it through. I've never been that physically affected by irrational fear to that extent before. People were kind and said next one will be easier.

Immense respect here. I played in front of just four people from my immediate family the other night and my hands were shaking

Congrats!

 

[ploverwing]

Congratulations, I am super impressed. Well done! I can't play in front of my teacher without having everything fall apart, let alone playing for an actual real audience. Props!!

 

[ploverwing]

I've been off my anxiety meds (alcohol) for 11 months.

And well done on this, too.

 

[John Colter]

It was amazing, my hands were shaking like crazy. I flubbed notes but mostly kept time and my voice was barely coming out because I couldn't draw air but I made it through. I've never been that physically affected by irrational fear to that extent before. People were kind and said next one will be easier.

Yep, I can relate to all that. The big breakthrough for me was the first time I totally blanked while performing alone on a stage. It was the thing I dreaded most but once it had happened, and there were no dire consequences, I realised it was nothing to be scared of.

Congratulations, Baconsalad, you have taken the first steps and you are on your way!

 

[Ukecaster]

Yes, congrats on breaking the ice! Keep doing it and it will be easier. I did a few hundred gigs with our classic rock band, but I did guitar/backup vocals, was never the lead vocalist. Although I play uke/sing for friends and family, haven't done any live, on stage uke perfornances, but suspect it would be a different kind of challenge, being all alone up there.