Even Horowitz in his later years would let loose with a little head bobbing and maybe a raised eyebrow, be that very restrained. The key is moderation, keep it under control, let the expression go into the keys not all over the piano bench. Even at that you should hold back slightly, even Horowitz in mid life had to play with a touch of reserve. He put his critics on edge otherwise, saying at times he seemed as though his performance was going to fall apart ! One such time was his White House playing of the Chopin Funeral March at mid recital, he let his emotions go on that one and didn't fumble but you can clearly see that he kind of startled himself and next time through that passage he was more in control..
The more you play and if you ever entertain someone along the way ( perform), you will learn restaint, just that touch of reserve. Every single time I give it absolutely all I have, I blow it ! Of course, cause it leaves no room for error. One thing is to over learn, work it up beyond where it needs to be, then play it to a lesser degree, what ever it is. And if you are going to play so strong that you blow it, do it at home or in practice.
Finally, who says you look like a moron ? It could be just your own new sensation and personal vision of yourself. Music brings out things we haven't experienced before sometimes.
Topic: How do I play with feeling without looking like a complete moron? (Read 1452 times)