- Setting your lipstick with a powder prevents it from sticking to your instrument.
- Hem too long? Just pin it up as needed with the latch side towards you.
- Soak reeds in mouthwash to improve the taste.
- Coconut oil is instant lip moisture and a gentle makeup remover.
- Powder your hands if you get sweaty hands.
- Take your instrument(s) and music in a tote bag.
- For my vocalists: Tea with honey. Enough said.
- Comfort grips work wonders for shoes that are too big.
- Technically not a lifehack, but make sure your shoes have adequate arch support! If not, you will suffer from random foot cramps.
- Since marching season is coming up, I thought I'd address how convenient a wearable water bottle can be. Chances are, you can use a carabiner clip or a rubber band to wear a normal water bottle.
- Flutists, shake your hands out during rests if your fingers lock. It releases them like a charm.
Clothing
- Target will frequently sell long, plain black skirts that are perfect for concerts. They are about $8-10 each, VERY comfortable, and they are machine washable. This is good for anyone who has to deal with open-ended concert attire, particularly college students. This lifehack can also benefit middle and high school students whose parents do not want to spend a lot on concert clothes.
- For assigned concert attire, wear a small accessory (if your director allows it) to personalize your look. My favorite is a gold flute necklace.
Makeup
- Benetint is how I get red lips that don't rub off on my flute. It also makes a good red blush and it is made of rose petals. You can apply more coats to get redder lips.
- I use brown eyeshadow to contour my nose to create a more sculpted look. This strategy is good for high school students (and even some middle school students) whose parents don't allow them to get much makeup and for college students who don't want to waste their money on nose shadow.
In General
- Dress like your piece. Adding a visual element to your music makes you seem more professional. The only "Don't" I have regarding this "Don't wear a beehive updo in an ensemble setting."
