If you are an introvert, your own thoughts and feelings are more important to you than social interaction. Plato said that music is the movement of sound to reach the soul for the education of its virtue. That’s why being an introvert is rather an advantage for a musician. You can delve deep into your soul and your mind and reflect a lot of detail and emotion in your music. You can concentrate fully on your instrument and the sound, making a masterpiece. 

It may, however, go well with improvising and expressing yourself in music whether playing alone or with a band. When you have to walk on stage and engage with the public, venue managers, and eventually producers and fans, it can turn into a nightmare. Does it have to be that challenging?  

The good news is that if you want to perform in public or promote your music, you can do so.

There is no such thing as a pure introvert or extrovert type, and it’s most likely that it’s your less dominant extrovert part that is pushing you to social interaction. Even if it is frightening, it is possible to complete the task and gain a positive experience. As an introverted musician, you may find it difficult to overcome your discomfort and maintain your inner integrity. Here are some ways to help you.

1. Let It Be 

That’s not just an iconic Beatles’ song, it’s a fundamental principle that can help you on your way to public sessions. Acknowledge your introversion. It’s not a flaw by any means but rather a strong point of your creativity. It lets you focus on the main thing—the music. Accept your psychological type and don’t strive to change it. Instead, think about what makes you feel comfortable during or after a conversation. 

Allow yourself to be alone for some time before or after you perform in public. If you have to say something between the songs and you don’t know what to say, just smile and say what song will be next. If you don’t feel like partying after your concert, simply inform your bandmates and go home. It’s very important to keep your integrity and replenish your energy after interacting with the public. 

2. Start from the Small Venue

Choose modest, friendly venues for your initial public performances. It can be your household first, then, a nearby coffee shop. It’s easier to get started this way, and the atmosphere is frequently more intimate than in larger venues. This advice also applies to forming a band. If you decide that you need a band to perform with you, it’s better to try playing together with a single performer first. Hold a series of rehearsals together, possibly culminating in a public performance. When you’ve gotten to know each other, it’ll be easier to recruit other band members who share your musical tastes.

3. Work It Out

If you like modern pop culture, you probably know this Beyoncé song. Otherwise, listen to “We can work it out” by the Beatles. It teaches that most things can be achieved through practice. That’s true for a public performance, too. There are many things we can’t do well from the start. However, if we start practicing it, we gain experience and skill, and we end up doing it better. 

Even if your first public performance was a disaster, don’t give up. Consider how you could improve and give it another shot. You don’t have to be successful this time or next time either. But you will definitely become more confident and, therefore, more relaxed. And then your public session will turn into a success. 

4. Wear Headphones when Performing in Public 

While many musicians like to wear headphones making or playing music, this accessory can help the introverted performer. Simply put on your headphones and focus on the sound you create—that’ll let you forget how many pairs of eyes are watching your every move and how many ears are listening. Get over-ear headphones with a strong band so that you take them off after the song is over, say a few words (if you wish), and put them back on. This is worth trying if you play alone or with another musician. If you play in a band, probably, this recommendation should be adjusted. Maybe you’ll have to listen to your bandmates’ music or a basic sound line.

5. Go Online

This method of communicating with people is still viable today, thanks to emails and social media messages. Indeed, the social media tool is a lifesaver for introverted music creators, as it allows you to avoid the harassment of live interaction. You can think over your message and amend it if needed. You don’t have to shrink back in anticipation of an immediate response from the person with whom you are talking. There’s no need to respond right away if you receive feedback. Use social media or messengers to contact the producers, venue managers, even your fans, and anyone else with whom you don’t want to speak in person right now. After that, you’ll most likely need to meet them in person, which will be easier to do once the primary contact has been established.

Another way to spread your music to the public is online streaming of your mini-concerts. Establish the camera and the microphone so that your sound is well heard and you are in the center of the camera, and make a performance online. In addition to increasing your popularity, this way you can practice performing in public and feel more relaxed at a live concert.     

6. Get to Know Other Introverted Musicians 

Maybe you have extrovert friends who share your approach to music, and together you’ll form an amazing band. However, there are times when you just want to hang out with someone who’s your type. Someone who doesn’t rush off to the next adventure and talk nonstop. Someone who doesn’t nag you if you’re sitting still and looking at something outside the window. Someone to whom you don’t have to explain why you don’t have to explain. Another introvert, in other words. By the way, there are many among the musicians. Take a look around and think of the people you’ve met. There’s definitely someone you feel at ease with. You don’t have to work together over your sound, but you’ll most likely enjoy such communication.   

7. Take an Extrovert with You

Bring a friend to a social event where you’re supposed to talk to other people, such as jam sessions, festivals, studio negotiations, and so on. Your friend does not have to be a musician, but good social skills will allow him or her to assist you in interacting with others and acting as your representative. Don’t try to convey your task to your friend though, you should be the one doing the talking. Your friend will back you up if something goes wrong (e.g. you begin to stutter, can’t find the words, and so on), that’s all. This way, you will feel more confident and relaxed. It will also be good practice for your social skills.