Studies conducted among music students reveal that most of them find studying at the conservatory a difficult challenge.  Playing or singing in front of an audience while in a learning process is experienced as particularly stressful, as is the constant pressure to perform to the highest standards.  Some students also report competition among the students themselves and the weekly classes in their main subject as stress factors.

Successfully completing the course of study is not only a question of talent but it also (and perhaps even more so) depends on the capacity of the individual to cope with the stressful aspects of the course.

As part of the Personal Instrument Project, I have developed a course of Mental Training for students, in which the above as well as a number of other issues are explored.  Unusual exercises calling on the student’s fantasy are used to get in touch with thoughts and emotions that may be impeding the student in his study.  You are provided with tools to manage disruptive feelings and help you to function as well as possible under all circumstances.

During the individual Mental Training sessions, I will, working together with you, put together a made-to-measure package of exercises with subjects such as

• Mental preparation for an exam/performance
• Neutralizing disruptive thoughts
• Stress management using breathing and relaxation exercises
• Planning your practice sessions

Mental Training lessons are particularly effective in combination with the lessons for dealing with areas of stress.