The Start

Prepare!!

Never Start to play until you are absolutely ready:

• Seating. Make sure you can see all the players who are performing and move seating and music stand height if necessary.
• Tune. Take care in tuning your instrument. Do not rush.
• Smile. Look at the audience. They are not your enemy. 
• Prepare yourself mentally, thinking about the opening phrase. 
• Relax and breath! Do not worry about the audience. They have paid their money. You have nothing to worry about.

Beginning

• Take an audible breath to help your accompanist to start with you.
• Eye contact is also essential and also builds confidence amongst players.
• Do not rush into the performance like a bull at a red rag!