There is a town hall every Friday morning at MetWest High School in Oakland, CA where current MusicianCorps Fellow Laura Cambron serves two days a week. The town hall is an opportunity for the school community to share updates and highlight the amazing work that students do every week. On Friday, February 25 Fellows that serve in the Bay Area, including myself, had the opportunity to see Ms. Laura's students in action as they performed an original song and two covers. We came in early to watch the last rehearsal. After the rehearsal one of the participants approached Ms. Laura and the team of Fellows and expressed that she wasn't confident about performing and was considering not performing. But she approached the wrong crowd. We listened to her concerns and supported her but also let her know that not performing was not an option.

As music instructors and performers, we understand the self doubt that can be felt before going on stage, especially if it's the first time you are singing or playing in front of a crowd, and as an individual I have experienced how encouraging it can be to hear that word of confidence from your teacher. After hearing that strong message of confidence from the Fellows, this particular student went on to deliver a wonderful performance for all at the town hall.

The hesitation will always be there as we prepare to deliver a presentation or perform for an audience. It is a good thing, as that feeling forces us to focus and humble our selves to the audience. If there was never any hesitation we would see way too many cooks doing magic shows. Not that cooks can't do magic, but they should make sure to think it through before they use any sharp objects on stage. In any case, while preparing for a performance, the only question going through our minds should be: how can I deliver a higher quality presentation? and not: should I do it, should I not?

Once you decide to go ahead with it no matter what, the road towards a great performance is clear and yours for the taking.