How I Test My Piano Readiness Before Performing #MusicLesson

How do you really know if you’re ready to perform on stage Whether you’re playing chamber music, accompanying another musician, or performing solo, there’s always that question Am I truly ready

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In this video, I share a foolproof method I use before every performance to test my readiness one that takes just a few minutes and gives me instant feedback. It involves music, YouTube, headphones, and of course, your piano.

Here’s how it works- I find a YouTube recording of the piece I’ll be performing, put on my headphones, and play along. If I can stay with the recording keeping time, matching phrasing, and maintaining balance I know I’m ready for the stage. If not, it’s clear that there’s still some polishing to do in the practice room.

It’s such a simple but powerful test. When you play along with a recording, you’re forced to respond musically in real time. You can’t stop, you can’t fix mistakes just like on stage. It recreates the pressure, the pacing, and the intensity of live performance, but in a safe space
where you can observe how your body and mind respond.

???? Why this method works so well
Realistic simulation- Playing along with YouTube recordings mimics real performance timing.
Instant feedback You’ll know immediately whether your tempo, phrasing, and dynamics hold up.
Builds stage confidence- It’s the closest thing to performing with an ensemble without leaving your home.

Reveals weak spots- If you fall behind or lose coordination, you’ll know exactly where to focus your next practice.

Encourages listening- Accompanying a recording trains you to balance your sound and blend musically essential for chamber music or accompaniment work.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about awareness. By practicing this way, you teach yourself to stay grounded under pressure, listen deeply, and flow with the music instead of fighting it.

Many pianists struggle to bridge the gap between practice and performance. We play beautifully in the studio but tense up on stage. This exercise closes that gap. When you can play confidently along with a recording, you’re developing timing, adaptability, and emotional steadiness the same skills you need under bright lights.

???? Try this before your next performance
Go on YouTube and search for your piece (choose a reliable performance).
Put on headphones so you can hear details clearly.
Sit at your piano and play along no stopping.
Notice what feels easy and what doesn’t.
Use that insight to refine your practice sessions.

It’s a small step, but it can completely change your mindset before going on stage. You’ll know, without a doubt, if your piece is secure or if you need one more round in the practice room.
This is one of those rare music tips that’s both practical and psychological it builds technical consistency while reducing stage anxiety. It turns practice into a performance test and transforms performance into an extension of your practice.

So before your next concert, competition, or chamber music performance, take a few minutes to do the YouTube headphone test. The results might surprise you and they’ll definitely make you more prepared.

???? Watch till the end for a clear explanation of how to set this up effectively at home.


If this helped you prepare for your next performance, drop a comment, subscribe for weekly piano insights, and share this with a fellow musician who needs a confidence boost before their next stage appearance.


Hi, I'm Helen Aun! I'm a peak performance coach, Alexander Technique teacher, and business mentor for pianists and piano teachers. With over 25 years of experience as a professional pianist and educator, I help musicians play with confidence and ease, and build successful careers.

What I Do:
Founder of The Helen Aun Institute, dedicated to helping pianists thrive artistically and financially.
Help pianists overcome performance anxiety and physical pain.

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