Watching Yourself Back: Embracing Self-Reflection and Cultivating Creative Growth

There’s a common misconception that musicians, performers, and artists enjoy watching or listening to their own performances. After all, they spend years honing their craft and putting it out into the world for others to experience. But the truth is, many artists find revisiting their work uncomfortable, even unsettling. Elton John famously admitted that he dislikes listening to his old songs or watching past performances. When he does, he often finds himself critiquing the tiniest details, wishing he had done things differently. This type of self-criticism is often rooted in perfectionism, and while it can lead to moments of self-doubt, it can also serve as a powerful tool for artistic growth when used constructively.

For musicians, getting beyond the initial discomfort of watching themselves perform can open the door to self-improvement and refinement. Yes, it requires pushing past self-doubt and facing one’s anxieties head-on. But in doing so, artists gain the opportunity to identify areas for improvement, refine their technique, and ultimately create better work in the future. Self-reflection, when practiced with kindness and intention, becomes an invaluable part of the creative process.

A key component of growth as an artist is learning to appreciate and build upon past work. The act of looking back is not about tearing down what has been done; rather, it’s about recognising both the strengths and areas for growth in a piece. At MCA, we actively encourage students to watch their performances back, critique themselves, and engage in constructive peer feedback. This approach is designed not just to help them improve but to develop an authentic understanding of their work and a healthy relationship with self-evaluation. By pairing self-reflection with kindness, we aim to help them build confidence rather than fear, resilience rather than doubt.

This reflective process has been particularly impactful with our latest group of MCA EarlyBirds, who have been preparing for a special performance for Armistice Day. Alongside learning the music and rehearsing the staging, they have been working on the crucial skill of watching themselves perform. This practice allows them to see what I, as their choir director, see: moments of strength, areas to refine, and potential for growth. Through self-reflection, they become active participants in the creative process. This year, it has been remarkable to see how quickly they are progressing—not only in their technical abilities but in their understanding of what’s expected of them as performers. By engaging with the critical process early on, they’re not just meeting expectations but surpassing them.

This practice of self-critique isn’t unique to the EarlyBirds; it’s a core element across the entire MCA music curriculum and even extends into the wider curriculum. The ability to revisit, refine, and reimagine past work is an essential part of growth in any field. However, in the performing arts, this process often feels deeply personal, which can make it more challenging and, at times, uncomfortable. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of discomfort that real progress happens.

So, how can we help young artists—and even seasoned professionals—become more comfortable with this process? The answer lies in integrating self-reflection as a natural part of the creative journey from an early age. When young artists learn to approach critique with an open mind and a kind heart, they begin to see it as a step toward improvement rather than as a judgment of their abilities. Teaching them that self-reflection is not only normal but also empowering can boost their confidence and give them a more resilient foundation to continue developing their craft.

Watch the MCA EarlyBirds technical rehearsal here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCEecMgqlSz/?igsh=MXQya2Z6ZnN3bjJzZg==

Ultimately, watching yourself back is about more than just correcting a few notes or refining a single performance. It’s about building a lasting relationship with your creative self—one that is rooted in self-awareness, continual growth, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. By learning to self-reflect with kindness, artists at any stage can cultivate their creativity, learn to appreciate their progress, and find assurance in their unique abilities as they continue their journey.