Random Thoughts on: Performing Virtually

My first virtual concert taught me a good lesson. There's a reason, shows like the tiny desk concerts have so many people on staff. There are several sound and video people and managers who handle everything.

The technology to put together my virtual show was not on my side. I had to download additional software to stream (OBS), but it didn't work. So, I had to stop and start over. Then I had to post the new video on my website. Once I got things going, it was ok until the sound started acting funny. I could see myself on my computer monitor. I looked up and realized I was focusing on all the technical parts of the show. I made sure I was singing correctly and had all the words down. But, I forgot to perform. I was doing nothing with my face or my body.

It's like when you read through a book, and you realize you weren't paying attention, so you have to start over. When people have big concerts, there are usually dozens of people to make it happen. So the performers can just perform. If they needed to focus on other things, they wouldn't be all there, and it would take away from the entertainment.

I can practice singing and make sure I sound great without much thought. But there's more to performing than just singing. There's connection, emotion, acting, and bringing people in so that they can feel the message behind the words I write. So I have to be all in with the performance and not be distracted by everything around me.

However, with everyone in quarantine, that is pretty difficult. For next time, I'll try to get everything automated. As prepared as I thought I could be, actually doing it is the experience I need. Thank you to everyone who was there to watch my messy beginning. If you missed it, you can catch my next show soon. Check my Shows page for more information!