"This book focuses on the performance of classical music, but the basic principles are the same for all kinds of music. Musicians need to make their audiences receptive and to give them a lasting, positive impression. Just as classical training lays a foundation for the performance of other kinds of music, the basics of stage presence outlines here may be adopted to all kinds of performances, by all kinds of musicians." - page xiii.

Focusing on examples of live performance in drama, dance, opera and light entertainment, Jane Goodall explores a characteristic as compelling and enigmatic as the performers who demonstrate it. The mysterious quality of ‘presence’ in a performer has strong resonances with the uncanny. It is associated with primal, animal qualities in human individuals, but also has connotations of divinity and the supernatural, relating to figures of evil as well as heroism. Stage Presence traces these themes through theatrical history. This fascinating study also explores the blend of science and spirituality that accompanies the appreciation of human power. Performers display a magnetism of their audiences; they electrify them, exhibit mesmeric command, and develop chemistry in their communication. Case studies include: Josephine Baker, Sarah Bernhardt, Thomas Betterton, David Bowie, Maria Callas, Bob Dylan, David Garrick, Barry Humphries, Henry Irving, Vaslav Nijinsky and Paul Robeson.

This fascinating study differentiates stage presence from charisma and stardom, to explore the co-presence of and relationship between performer and audience.

Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned professional, Presenting Magically will provide you with masterful tips and techniques to transform your presenting skills. " A treasure trove of information on how to acquire the skills of a world class presenter." Judith E. Pearson PhD, Anchor Point

What is special, distinct, modern about modernity? In How the World Became a Stage, William Egginton argues that the experience of modernity is fundamentally spatial rather than subjective and proposes replacing the vocabulary of subjectivity with the concepts of presence and theatricality. Following a Heideggerian injunctive to search for the roots of epochal change not in philosophies so much as in basic skills and practices, he describes the spatiality of modernity on the basis of a close historical analysis of the practices of spectacle from the late Middle Ages to the early modern period, paying particular attention to stage practices in France and Spain. He recounts how the space in which the world is disclosed changed from the full, magically charged space of presence to the empty, fungible, and theatrical space of the stage.

In The Musician's Way, veteran performer and educator Gerald Klickstein combines the latest research with his 30 years of professional experience to provide aspiring musicians with a roadmap to artistic excellence. Part I, Artful Practice, describes strategies to interpret and memorize compositions, fuel motivation, collaborate, and more. Part II, Fearless Performance, lifts the lid on the hidden causes of nervousness and shows how musicians can become confident performers. Part III, Lifelong Creativity, surveys tactics to prevent music-related injuries and equips musicians to tap their own innate creativity. Written in a conversational style, The Musician's Way presents an inclusive system for all instrumentalists and vocalists to advance their musical abilities and succeed as performing artists.

Describes the techniques musicians can use to "conjure the energy, the charisma, and the command of the stage necessary" to transform their performances.

In this practical guide, renowned actor and director Michael Chekhov shares his innovative approach to the craft of acting. Drawing on his extensive experience in the theater and his unique understanding of the actor's creative process, Chekhov presents a comprehensive system of techniques designed to help actors develop their physical, mental, and emotional abilities. Through a series of exercises and principles, actors can learn to create compelling, truthful performances that captivate audiences and bring characters to life on stage and screen.

This comprehensive, illustrated text offers an in-depth look at the mechanics and musical thought process of teaching the classical guitar the "why" rather than the "how" the classical guitarist does things a certain way. In the author's words, "Classical Guitar Pedagogy is the study of how to teach guitarists to teach." This university-level text will be of enormous assistance to the teacher in explaining the musical, anatomical, technical, and psychological underpinning of guitar performance. It contains ideas and techniques to help organize your teaching more efficiently, plus tips on career development as a classical guitar teacher and performer. If you make your living as a classical guitar teacher/performer you owe it to yourself and your students to get this book.