My first thought is that standing in front of a group of people and singing/playing is not a "natural" situation in which to place one's self, so nerves are certainly going to be a factor for all but a very few. Repeated exposure to this circumstance is a must.

Secondly, I tell myself that extreme nervousness is a cenceited, self-centered, and inappropriate response to the situauation. "What if I screw up and look like a fool?" What if they don'e like ME?" etc. Remember, when you perform, your goal is, hopefully, to entertain the audience. With this in mind, performing is all about THEM...not YOU."

Third, make time to perform in a less stressful environment. Play live on-line (Paltalk, Second Life - although that latter is not for the technically squeamish!). Better yet, volunteer to play at nursing homes, health care facilities, and other places - alot.

Finally, go immediately to www.soloperformer.com and read the advice there. I highly recommend the book - Art of the Solo Performer - which you can get there or on Amazon, etc. (I am in no way affiliated nor do I profit one bit in any way from the site, the book, etc.)

Good Luck.

dw