With our Winter Music Concert only several days away, APA students are working hard to make their performances shine. Our music teachers are guiding students far beyond just “playing the right notes”—they’re helping them perform with confidence, expression, and joy.
Parents often ask:
“How can I help my child get ready when I don’t know anything about music?”
Great news—you can help more than you think! Here are simple, meaningful ways to support your musician at home:
1. Be a Practice Audience
Live performance can feel exciting and a little nerve-wracking. The best way to build confidence is to perform in front of people ahead of time.
Easy ways to help:
- Ask your child to play or sing their piece for you.
- Invite siblings, grandparents, or a neighbor to be a small audience.
- Celebrate their effort, not perfection—this lowers anxiety and builds confidence.
The more “mini-performances” they do, the calmer and more prepared they will feel on concert day.
2. Give Feedback on the Non-Music Details
Parents sometimes feel unsure about offering feedback—but you absolutely can help with the stage-ready moments that happen before and after the music.
At home, encourage your musician to practice:
- Walking confidently to their “stage” (living room is perfect!)
- Adjusting a bench, music stand, or imaginary microphone
- Taking a deep breath before beginning
- Smiling to relax
- Bowing or curtsying after they finish
These little habits make performing smoother and help students feel more prepared when the real moment arrives.
3. Help Choose a Comfortable Concert Outfit
Performance attire matters more than we think! Students should look polished and feel comfortable enough to move, breathe, and perform well.
Quick tips:
- Pianists: avoid shoes like loose sandals or flip-flops—choose shoes that make pedaling easy.
- Vocalists: practice in the shoes they’ll wear on concert day (heels, flats, etc.) so balance and posture feel the same.
- All musicians: make sure clothing allows them to sit, breathe, and move freely.
Comfort = confidence on stage.
4. Remind Your Musician That You’re Proud No Matter What
This is the most important tip of all.
Nearly every student worries about making a mistake. Let your musician know:
- Mistakes are completely normal in live performance.
- You care more about their effort and joy than perfection.
- You’ll be proud of them no matter what happens onstage.
Hearing this directly from you can relieve a huge amount of pressure and help them enjoy the moment.
We’re Here to Support You
Whether you have a musical background or none at all, these simple steps can make a big difference in your child’s performance experience. If you have questions or want specific advice, please reach out to your child’s music teacher—we’re eager to help.
Tiffany Sullivan
APA Music Director