Stressbusters
Tools for Managing Performance Stress
What is “Stressbusters”? Stressbusters (so named by the students who participated in the initial program) is a program designed to offer coping tools to students for whom performance stress has become problematic. Students in the Wyatt Piano Studio may learn to use the Stressbusters program's tools. The intention is to make performing less painful, more productive, and even enjoyable, by giving options for management.
The goals are to:
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Give an understanding of “performance stress”
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Assist the student in discovering the roots of his problem
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Teach tools for managing
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Assist the student in developing his own personal program for self-management
The tools used are:
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Adapted Tai Chi exercises
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Progressive muscle relaxation
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Affirmations
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Visualizations
The program is, by necessity, tailored to the needs and desires of each individual participant. If the student is a member of the Wyatt Piano Studio, he/she receives ongoing assignments utilizing the Stressbusters tools as he continues to prepare for various performances. If the student is a member of another studio, his/her teacher is assisted with ideas for continuing the program and for giving assignments.
It is important to remember that performance stress is a habit; therefore, it can be broken, and new, healthier, and more productive habits established.