Verhoogvrees vanuit die pianis se perspektief : ʹn interpretatiewe fenomenologiese analise

Abstract

The aim of this interpretative phenomenological analysis was to examine the meaning of the experiences pianists have with performance anxiety at both solo and ensemble performances. Several quantitative and mixed method studies have already studied performance anxiety, but only a few have examined the deeper meaning. Interviews were conducted with three female professional pianists of the ages of 44, 45 and 54, to describe and explain the in-depth experiences they have with performance anxiety. During the analytical phase the computer program, ATLAS.ti was used to identify themes and categories for each individual case. Findings show that pianists prepare in the same way for any concert. This includes dealing with and/or prevention of performance anxiety. All participants accept performance anxiety as a given and deal with it by concentrating on the music. Self-reflection begins immediately after the concert and it continues throughout the preparation period for the next concert. The implications for pianists and pedagogues is a better understanding of performance anxiety and through which they can learn to accept the phenomenon and how to deal with it in a better way.