This is not typically done in classical performances, but it’s certainly something you should think about incorporating. Talking with your audience creates a strong personal connection that can be invaluable in cementing lasting memories of the performance.
When I was growing up, my father Morton Estrin played large venues all over the world, from Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall to Europe and elsewhere. One of his trademarks was that he would talk to the audience. Taking a brief moment during the performance to break the ice and introduce himself as a performer and a person would allow the audience to form a personal connection and enrich their experience.
If you are performing in a more relaxed setting – like a restaurant or a club – it’s imperative that you make contact with your audience and talk with them every now and then. You shouldn’t talk too much but you should briefly speak to them every now and then to make a genuine connection. It can be thrilling for the audience!
It’s even more unexpected in larger concert halls. Even if you feel nervous and unsure about making contact this way, try announcing your encore pieces clearly so everyone can hear. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been to concerts where the artist never talks at all and the audience becomes confused and frustrated trying to figure out what encore pieces are being played.
I hope this series has been helpful for you. Be on the lookout for more topics and videos just like this one. Thanks again for joining me Robert Estrin Robert@LivingPianos.com (949) 244-3729