Klarinet Archive - Posting 000681.txt from 2002/01

From: "Laurence Young" <klarinette@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Earplugs
Date: Sat, 26 Jan 2002 11:29:12 -0500

Well, it's even worse when you're sitting in front of the one doing the
crashing. I've played a fair number of pieces where I've left with ringing
in my ears. I suppose I've become more used to it as time has gone by, but
I have been known to use earplugs when things were especially loud or
startling. I really don't like using them because it creates a buzzing
sound in my head whenever I play and I feel like I can't hear the rest of
the ensemble (well that's what they're supposed to do, I know). The
solution I've found is I'd wear one earplug in the ear nearest to the very
loud sound (brass, percussion, Eb player) and leave my other ear open, so I
could still hear something. It works but I don't like it so much. The
brand of earplug I use is called "Hearos" or something like that (sorry I've
lost the box). I got them at Tower Records and they work just fine. I've
seen our percussionists using some other brand but I couldn't tell you
anything about them. There you go, hope that helps.

Larry

----- Original Message -----
From: "Donna Higgins" <donna@-----.com>
Subject: [kl] Earplugs

> A question for list members who play in orchestras or bands:
>
> Do you wear earplugs to protect against hearing loss, and if so, what
> brand do you use and where do you buy them? My local music store sells
> something that's described as "musicians' earplugs" that are supposed to
> provide protection while still allowing the person to hear enough to
> play. Do these work as advertised?
>
> I never thought I needed earplugs before, but I've started playing some
> percussion and those cymbal crashes are awfully loud when you're the one
> doing the crashing. :-)
>
> Thanks!
>
> - Donna
>
>
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>

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