Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the curtain before your child steps on stage for a recital? A lot more than just practicing their song! At the Harrison School of Music and the New City School of Music, we believe that recitals are about more than just performing — they're about growth, confidence, and unforgettable memories.
Here’s a peek behind the scenes at what it really takes to prepare for a successful recital experience — and how we make sure it’s stress-free, fun, and rewarding for every student.
The Mental Game: Learning to Perform
Before students ever step on stage, they’re learning how to manage nerves, focus under pressure, and express themselves through music. These are life skills that go far beyond music lessons — skills that help in school presentations, sports, job interviews, and more.
Our teachers gently guide students to be performance-ready by:
Helping them choose the right song (one that’s just challenging enough!)
Building confidence with repetition and structured practice
Simulating performance moments in lessons — like playing the piece straight through without stopping
The Practice Process: Little by Little
We encourage students to start recital prep early, breaking their piece into smaller sections and focusing on:
Smooth transitions between phrases
Dynamics and expression (not just the right notes!)
Stage presence and posture
Regular, consistent practice — even 10–15 minutes a day — is more effective than cramming. Students who take the time to prepare steadily tend to enjoy the performance a lot more.
Our Recitals: Free, Low-Pressure, High-Reward
One thing that sets the Harrison and New City Schools apart is that we offer completely free, low-pressure student recitals multiple times per year. These performances are designed to be supportive and encouraging, not intimidating.
There are no judges, no competition — just students, families, and teachers coming together to celebrate progress and musical joy. And guess what? The benefits are incredible:
Boosts confidence: Performing in front of an audience builds courage.
Motivates progress: Students often improve faster with a clear goal.
Teaches poise and resilience: If they make a mistake? They learn to keep going — just like in life.
Creates lifelong memories: The applause, the photos, the excitement... it’s magic.
Parent Tip: Encourage, Don’t Pressure
Want to help your child thrive? Let them know you’re proud of them for participating — not for playing perfectly. Celebrate their effort, not just the outcome. A little encouragement goes a long way.
Ready for the Spotlight?
If your child is enrolled in lessons and hasn’t participated in a recital yet, now’s a great time to consider it! Talk to your teacher about upcoming opportunities — we’re here to make the process as smooth and uplifting as possible.
Whether it's their first time on stage or their fifth, every student grows in ways you can see and feel.
See you at the recital! 🎶
