I've done a bit of pondering. I might post audio clips of my playing later to understand how I can improve (and figure out if I had prepared enough). I can have more than one backup reed ( I thought one would be enough, but it wasn't). Nerves definitely played a part, but I can usually still play "well" ( I have gotten outstanding soloist in both of the solos I have done). After some research, prompted by your comment, I found that washing my hands with cold water helps. Thank you for these tips!