Just a couple of weeks ago I was dealing with an emotion I felt uncomfortable with: performance anxiety. Not as a horn player, but as a conductor rehearsing our community band. It’s something I’ve done for six months now and even still I get nervous and shaky before each rehearsal.

I did what so many of us do: I posted on Facebook and asked for tips to conquer performance anxiety. Of course, among the many kind and excellent suggestions shared, one book was mentioned again and again: The Inner Game of Music. It’s a classic, and even though I’ve read it several times, I’m still learning from it. The book offers practical ways musicians can reach new levels of performing excellence by overcoming obstacles, improving concentration, and reducing nervousness.

I’m delighted to say that in today’s podcast we get to meet Barry Green, coauthor of the Inner Game of Music.