The purpose of this study was to compare the levels of anxiety that students experienced according to whether their public performance consisted of a free improvisation or a repertory piece. The researcher had two objectives: (1) examine the relationship of students' levels of anxiety to free improvisation and repertory pieces during a performance; and (2) examine the effectiveness of free improvisation as a treatment for the reduction of performance anxiety. The following instruments were used for data collection: (1) Spielberger's (1973) State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children; (2) Musical Anxiety Report Scale; (3) subject interviews; (4) parent questionnaire; and (5) performance video. Thirty-six elementary, middle and high school students were selected from a list of potential subjects. Participants were selected based on age (7-18 years) and years of training (1-8), as well as to comprise a gender balance. Sample criteria required that all subjects who participated in the study: (1) played the piano; (2) claimed to have experienced music performance anxiety; and (3) had not received any previous psychological or pharmacological treatment for their music performance anxiety. Results from this study validated free improvisation as a treatment for significantly reducing anxiety during the public performance of a musical work. (Contains 3 tables.)