A performance becomes generous when skill serves what the audience can receive.

Skill can be pointed in two directions. Aimed inward it demonstrates what the performer can do, and the room admires it from a distance. Aimed outward it asks what these particular listeners are able to take in tonight, and shapes tempo, difficulty, and choice of piece around the answer. The second is harder, because it means leaving out things you have every right to be proud of.

Before your next performance or presentation, picture three actual people who will be there. Choose one thing to simplify for their sake, and notice whether the room comes closer.