Att spela med känsla : Hur mental träning kan påverka musikaliska framträdanden

Sammanfattning: This master’s thesis examines different mental training tools that musicians can utilize in order to be more comfortable on stage and to let the music flow unobstructed. The study focuses to a great extent on the art of visualizations in order for the musician to redirect their attention from intruding performance thoughts towards a defined musical and emotional expression. In addition, the study explores how other tools such as singing, meditating, dancing, breathing and positive affirmations can affect the performance, as well as how the audience experience the concert. The study was carried out with the help of artist- and performance coach Christine Löfgren, and with the help of Kenny Werner's book “Effortless Mastery: Liberating the Master Musician Within”. The work observes the musical and personal development the author Ludvig Dahlström has undergone during his last semester at the master's program in classical viola at Edsberg, Royal College of Music, Stockholm. The final result was performed at an graduation recital on May 29, 2023 and is documented with an audio recording. The study concludes that the mental training has been successful, resulting in measurable differences such as a bigger sound, a more natural musical flow and an increased well-being on stage and in general, as well as an improvement in focus and quicker learning. In addition, the study has resulted in a general improvement of self-esteem of the writer and a closer communication with the audience.