From Perfect to Present: Reframing Music Performance Anxiety as a Pathway to Flow through Emotional and Somatic Awareness in Perfectionist Vocalists
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Authors
Mabugat, Niña Arny
Issue Date
2025-08-07
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
perfectionism , music performance anxiety , vocalist , musician , emotional regulation , somatic regulation , flow states , excellencism
Alternative Title
Abstract
Music Performance Anxiety (MPA) and perfectionism are highly prevalent among vocalists, often impairing both technical execution and emotional presence during performances. While perfectionism in its maladaptive form is linked to burnout, self-criticism, and disrupted flow (Hill et al., 2010; Stoeber, 2021), emerging frameworks such as excellencism (Gaudreau, 2019) offer a more adaptive perspective that aligns with psychological flexibility, growth mindset, and sustainable performance. This literature review synthesizes research across psychology, performance science, and somatic practices to explore the complex interplay between perfectionism, MPA, and flow states in vocal performance. Findings indicate that while MPA can manifest in significant physiological and psychological symptoms, (Cohen & Bodner, 2019); Lewis & Hendricks, 2022), moderate levels of anxiety may also serve as a catalyst for flow when paired with effective coping strategies (Spahn et al., 2021); Jiang & Tong, 2024). Interventions that integrate cognitive reframing, emotional acceptance, and somatic regulation emerge as central to helping vocalists redirect performance pressure into focus and expressive freedom (Gross, 2015; Flamini, 2020). Clinical implications emphasize the importance of tailoring intervention to vocalists' unique needs through approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), breathwork, body mapping, and mindfulness. Taken together, this review positions the body and mind not as separate entities, but as interedependent mechanisms that, when regulated, support the attainment of flow and foster a healthier relationship with vocal performance.
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License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess