The study aim was to transfer three interventions to optimize performance under pressure-a pre-performance routine (PPR), left-hand dynamic handgrip, and goalsetting-from sports to music. We hypothesized that the three intervention groups would report higher self-efficacy and perform better under pressure than the control group. In a 4 × 2 within-between-subjects design, 46 music students and aspiring professional musicians from all over the world performed audition excerpts under low-and highpressure conditions. Pressure was induced in an adjudicated online mock audition. During a 4-week period between performances, three groups applied either PPR, dynamic handgrip, or goal-setting to their daily practice, while the waitlist control group practiced without an intervention. Participants' music performance was measured by expert jurors, audience, and self-evaluations. The three interventions were perceived as helpful by the participants, but there were no significant differences in music performance, neither between the groups nor between pre-and posttests. All groups reported higher selfefficacy in the posttest. A significant three-way interaction revealed differences in the changes of self-efficacy over phase as a function of music performance anxiety (MPA); specifically, intervention participants high in trait MPA reported higher self-efficacy in the posttest than control participants high in trait MPA, while no differences emerged between intervention and control participants low in trait MPA. Results did not indicate an effectiveness of the interventions for music performance, but the interventions were helpful for participants' self-efficacy, especially for those high in trait MPA.

IntroductionNot being able to manage performance anxiety and subsequently experiencing a decline in performance have been called “choking under pressure”. High trait anxiety and fear of negative evaluation, as well as low self-efficacy or self-confidence, can put performers especially at risk of experiencing choking. This study, therefore, examined the effects of psychological choking interventions tailored to “choking-susceptible” performing artists individually in a coaching setting.MethodsWe conducted a mixed-methods (QUANT + QUAL) collective case study with nine performing artists, who each received five individual coaching sessions. The tailored choking interventions comprised acclimatization training, goal setting, and pre-performance routines, including elements such as imagery, self-talk, and relaxation techniques. Before and after the 10-week intervention phase, they filled in questionnaires on trait performance anxiety, fear of negative evaluation, and self-efficacy, performed in front of a jury, and were interviewed about their experiences. Transcripts of interviews and coaching sessions were analyzed using thematic analysis. Heart rate measurements, weekly performance videos, and expert evaluations were also part of our comprehensive data.ResultsQuantitative data showed reductions in performance anxiety and fear of negative evaluation, and increases in self-efficacy and performance quality, from before to after the intervention phase. Most participants also had a lower heart rate when performing for the jury. Themes from qualitative analysis comprised managing nervousness and feeling more relaxed, becoming more self-confident, satisfaction with artistic and mental performance, feeling good and enjoying performing, and general positive effects.ConclusionTailoring psychological interventions may provide several benefits for choking-susceptible performing artists.