stagecraft dojo materials

WHERE DO I BEGIN?

Once you are registered for Stagecraft Dojo, think about what two-to-five-minute piece you might like to use. Maybe you already know what you'd like to perform, or maybe you'd like feedback on a few pieces during the series. There is time in each session for one performance per person.

STAGECRAFT PREPARATION

1. Select your piece and make a chart for it with words and chords. Prepare to bring 3 copies.

2. Fill out and send your contact information. Tell us about your goals, stage experience and what you consider your obstacles to be.

3. Bring your instrument.

4. Dress comfortably. Last session dress to perform. If it's folk music, come as you are (or as you feel is appropriate to the genre).

5. Practice daily, as though you are in-training for a sports event (called music performance). Vocalize, eat well, drink water, exercise, Work on your piece every day in as many ways as come to mind - try new things out to make it uniquely yours, the way YOU enjoy it, play with a metronome, slower and faster, play in front of a mirror and see what you see while you play your song, move more, move less, try out new riffs, simplify busy-ness for a "less is more" approach to allow more space for the piece to express itself, Practice silence. Practice tuning and talking at the same time. Practice joy and humor. Never (never) apologize on stage. Think about what you want to say between songs, banter, "a funny thing happened on the way to open mic..." Think about song introductions, one that aligns with the song, and one that is in contrast to the song (rainy weather, sunny song). More to come...