Ear Factor: Play It Safe When It Comes To Your Hearing
Whether you play for a wall thumping garage band or with a booming brass band, your ears need protection from the loud sounds that constantly bombard them. But just how much noise is too much? Eighty-five decibels, like the amount of sound from a blender or a lawnmower, is enough to reach the threshold level where hearing loss can occur. Even a minute-long exposures to a sound at 110 decibels like a jackhammer or chainsaw, can cause permanent damage. Damage to your hearing would certainly affect your ability to make music, including the capacity for tuning and adjusting the pitch of your instrument.
The first step to protecting your ears can be as simple as performing “unplugged.” Try switching to the acoustic version of your instrument. The low-volume sounds on an acoustic guitar or piano will lessen hearing loss caused by electric guitars and keyboards. You’ll have all the same physical elements—pressing your hands against keys and strings—and the same patterns of forming chords and strumming, but the risk of hearing loss is greatly reduced. If you’re not willing to give up plugged-in performances altogether, you might consider a smaller, low-power amp, maybe even one small enough to hook to your belt or pocket.
Many musicians choose to use earplugs and monitors to curb hearing damage. In-ear monitors are a great option for musicians who want to hear themselves while playing in a group setting. The monitor helps control the amount of sound going into the ear without losing the ability to hear yourself and keep proper time. Monitors can be custom made to fit an individual’s unique ear canal. Hearing care professionals can make molds of your ear canal.
Earplugs provide the best protection against hearing loss. Look for products that fit the ear canal snugly for maximum protection. Plugging your ears is effective, not only during loud practice sessions, but also at concerts or other noisy venues. Many earplugs that come in a pack are one-sized so make sure you find a tight fit.
If you’re frequently exposed to loud sound, musical or otherwise, it’s a good idea to get your hearing checked regularly. The websites for Hearing Education and Awareness for Rockers (hearnet.com) and the House Ear Institute
(www.hei.org) can help you find a licensed doctor or audiologist who can diagnose any damage and recommend
customized products to prevent further hearing loss. Finding the right ear gear and being proactive about
hearing health, can save your precious hearing for your music making.
