" I didn’t have traditional stage fright. If there was 500 people in the audience or three people in the audience, it didn’t really make a difference. What made a difference was the conductor. Everything that I was scared about as a drummer was him. "
- Damien Chazelle

In the given statement, Damien Chazelle shares his experience as a drummer, expressing that he wasn't afraid of performing in front of large or small audiences. Instead, his anxiety stemmed from interacting with the conductor on stage. The fear and nervousness were tied to the relationship and dynamics between him and the person leading the performance.

This quote delves into the complexities of performance anxiety and highlights how it can be deeply personal and situational rather than generalized. Chazelle's statement suggests that while many people might experience stage fright due to the audience size or public exposure, his fear was specifically tied to the conductor’s authority and influence over his performance. This insight reveals a more nuanced understanding of stage nerves, underscoring how professional relationships and expectations can significantly impact an artist's emotional state during live performances.

Damien Chazelle is a renowned American filmmaker known for directing films such as "Whiplash" and "La La Land." Both these movies explore themes related to the intensity and pressures faced by artists in their respective fields. His personal experiences as a drummer before transitioning into filmmaking clearly influence his work, offering unique perspectives on the challenges and emotions associated with artistic endeavors.