“By blocking the action of adrenaline and other substances, these drugs mute the sympathetic nervous system, which produces fear in response to any perceived danger, be it a sabre-toothed tiger or a Lincoln Center audience,” says Tindall, an oboist, performer, and journalist. Stage fright is a widespread issue that many musicians face. It can both physically and mentally paralyze you, affecting the quality of each performance you give. There is no one specific cause to stage fright — some say it happens from insecurity and under-preparation, while others believe it has to do with playing from memory or being in front of a scrutinizing audience (Smith). Regardless, one of the biggest questions we all ask is what can we do about it? The answer,
…show more content…
First, beta blockers are known to have numerous side effects such as lightheadedness, hallucinations, worsening of asthma, and nausea. It is important to receive the drugs through prescription and that users know what is at risk, but unfortunately, that is usually not the case. One study of orchestra musicians showed that “70 percent of musicians taking beta blockers got them from friends, not physicians” (Tindall). These people are not only using beta blockers unlawfully, but are putting themselves at risk. Another issue is whether or not beta blockers are an acceptable drug in the world of classical music. Many musicians have compared using beta blockers to using performance-enhancing drugs in sports; they give those using the drug an unfair advantage. The difference, however, is that beta blockers cannot actually enhance your performance — they can only allow you to play without the interference of physical anxiety symptoms (Tindall). Additionally, some opponents of beta blockers even go as far as to argue that they are unethical. They believe that too many musicians depend on the drug for their work. Many say that performances by musicians using beta blockers can sound artificial, inauthentic, or emotionally disconnected from the
First, beta blockers are known to have numerous side effects such as lightheadedness, hallucinations, worsening of asthma, and nausea. It is important to receive the drugs through prescription and that users know what is at risk, but unfortunately, that is usually not the case. One study of orchestra musicians showed that “70 percent of musicians taking beta blockers got them from friends, not physicians” (Tindall). These people are not only using beta blockers unlawfully, but are putting themselves at risk. Another issue is whether or not beta blockers are an acceptable drug in the world of classical music. Many musicians have compared using beta blockers to using performance-enhancing drugs in sports; they give those using the drug an unfair advantage. The difference, however, is that beta blockers cannot actually enhance your performance — they can only allow you to play without the interference of physical anxiety symptoms (Tindall). Additionally, some opponents of beta blockers even go as far as to argue that they are unethical. They believe that too many musicians depend on the drug for their work. Many say that performances by musicians using beta blockers can sound artificial, inauthentic, or emotionally disconnected from the