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Musicians Discuss Beta Blockers and Mental Health Solutions

4/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Andrew Gillett, a viola player, and Zara Hudson-Kozdoj, a cellist, discuss beta blockers for performance anxiety, and Gillett started using them 30 years ago with reduced anxiety but sluggishness.
Hudson-Kozdoj uses beta blockers selectively, noting a generational divide in attitudes toward medication in classical music.
They say beta blockers manage symptoms but are not a long-term solution and urge therapy and open mental health discussions.

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Story summary

Andrew Gillett, a viola player, and Zara Hudson-Kozdoj, a cellist, discuss beta blockers for performance anxiety, and Gillett started using them 30 years ago with reduced anxiety but sluggishness.
Hudson-Kozdoj uses beta blockers selectively, noting a generational divide in attitudes toward medication in classical music.
They say beta blockers manage symptoms but are not a long-term solution and urge therapy and open mental health discussions.