Journal of Psychiatric Insight Review

Abstract

Music Performance Anxiety (MPA) is a common psychological challenge experienced by musicians, particularly students who are still developing their technical skills, confidence, and stage presence. This study investigates the relationship between performance experience and music performance anxiety among student musicians, examining whether increased exposure to performance situations influences anxiety levels, confidence, and coping abilities. A qualitative research approach was employed using interviews and participant testimonies from student musicians with varying levels of performance experience. Existing literature on music performance anxiety, self-efficacy, and performance psychology was also reviewed to support the investigation.

The findings suggest that performance experience generally contributes to greater confidence, emotional resilience, and improved management of performance-related stress. Participants who had performed more frequently reported feeling more comfortable in front of audiences and demonstrated stronger coping mechanisms when faced with nervousness or mistakes. However, the study also found that performance experience does not eliminate anxiety entirely, as factors such as perfectionism, fear of negative evaluation, and personal expectations continue to influence performers regardless of experience level. The results indicate that the relationship between performance experience and music performance anxiety is best described as a moderate negative correlation, where increased experience tends to reduce anxiety but does not completely remove it.

The study concludes that regular performance opportunities, combined with supportive learning environments and confidence-building strategies, can play an important role in helping student musicians manage music performance anxiety and develop both musically and psychologically.