[Trombone-l] Beta-blocker info requested

[Wayne Dyess]

I agree with this advice big time.

Any drug can be a bad thing.  My son injured his back and takes pain  
killers.  He became "hooked" on them, and if he forgets and takes too  
many -- he's out for hours.  Not a good thing!  I would avoid any  
drug if at all possible.

I think we all get a case of the nerves from time to time.  Just  
learn to deal with them and use them to your advantage.

In my case, I feel that I always perform better under the stress.   
Nerves.  Whatever you want to call it. My concentration level is  
higher.  The adrenalin is flowing.  I strive on that feeling.  But am  
I "nervous"?  You bet.  I try to not think about what others are  
thinking of me and instead focus on the music.  Preparation and  
confidence is the key.  I had a friend in high school who relied on  
"nerve" pills (probably like the beta blockers), and he never seemed  
as focused as in rehearsals.  He also never performed quite up to his  
potential.  I learned from that.

Get plenty of rest.
Over-prepare so you have the confidence to perform at your peak.
Focus on the music; forget the audience.
Play just the way you have practiced.
Have fun.

My two cents, for what it's worth.
--Wayne


On Nov 12, 2006, at 9:24 AM, Bosse Vingren wrote:

> Don't use beta blockers. I listened to Roger Webster trumpet and  
> Doctor and
> he strongely advise us not to use it. One side effect is impotens.

Dr. Wayne Dyess, Professor of Trombone
Lamar University
P. O. Box 10044
Beaumont, Texas  77710
http://lamar.edu

The Night & Day Orchestra
http://ndotex.com