Cooper Music Supports Atlanta Music Education
Cooper Music partners with the Peggy Still School of Music!
We have joined together in a partnership to offer the finest in musical products and education. Please select this link to visit the Peggy Still School of Music.
Things you should know
12 Performance Secrets Revealed by Peggy Still Johnson.
1. Pick songs that will fit the gig and songs that your audience will want to hear. Performing is about your audience -- especially if you want them to come back and support you again.
2. Dress well and dress so you fit in at the venue and gig. Many musicians do not realize how important appearance is. If you are not good with style, then ask a friend who has great style to help you. Professional artists have the complete package.
3. Preparation is key – know the venue and try to see another performer/group perform there prior to your gig. You might pick up on some things to be aware of with sound, lighting, accompanying musicians, and stage setup. Also practice, practice, practice…you are what you practice.
4. Practice in front of the mirror so you can see what you really look like performing. You might be surprised at how good you look or things you might want to change. Watch music videos of other artists and what they do and copy some of their stage presence ideas.
5. Dress well and dress so you fit in at the venue and gig. Many musicians do not realize how important appearance is. If you are not good with style, then ask a friend who has great style to help you. Professional artists have the complete package.
6. If you have promotional materials about yourself and/or a press kit – always bring them with you. Opportunity comes when we least expect it.
7. Get to the gig early. This will keep you calm - also reliability is just as important as talent especially if you want to get hired again. The venue does not want to hear about your drama on how you tried to get there on time or early.
8. For vocalists – bring ear plugs. If you are having a difficult time hearing yourself, put an earplug in one ear and you will be able to focus on your pitch if you are singing. If you are singing at Turner Field or a large outside stadium, wear 2 earplugs so the delay does not mess you up. If you are in a band, please note vocalists tend to oversing and sing too loud. Putting an earplug in one ear helps to keep the volume at a better level so the pitch is correct and your voice will not sound distorted in the microphone. Remember, microphones are not meant to be yelled into. Take a lesson in microphone technique if you do not know much about microphones and sound (your sound engineer will be happier with you.)
9. Focus is key - if you have trouble focusing and get nervous – find a focal point somewhere in the room you can look at so the audience thinks you are looking at them and smiling at them – maybe find a couple of focal points so you are looking at more than one place. Make sure the focal point is just above the heads of your audience. This way you will not be distracted by their expression on their faces or things they do.
10. Pick songs that fit the gig and also songs that your audience will want to hear. Performing is about your audience – especially if you want them to come back and support you again.
11. Promote promote promote! Help the venue make some money and they will invite you back.
12. Stay healthy – weeks before your gig and up until your gig, your should get lots of rest and eat right. Don’t stay out all night or go to an amusement park the day/night before your gig.
Our Mission
At Cooper Music, we believe in the power of music. That's why we are dedicated to providing you with the absolute best in music education. Our certified instructors from famous local music schools are committed to excellence and trained to help you take your musical journey as far as you want it to go. So whether you are a budding musician or an accomplished player, we are sure at Cooper Music you will find a program to suit your needs.
Here you will find a brief description of the various educational programs available to you. For more information on lessons, please call 404-329-1027. Let us help you enjoy the world of making music!
Private Instruction
Private lessons are also available at Cooper Music. Instruction is given on a "one on one" basis. Call 404-329-1027
In addition to these classes, Cooper Music may offer recitals, workshops, clinics and concerts that could available to all students.
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