And (sorry to get off topic):
But while such plugs are catching on among rock musicians (some of whom know not to perform without their plugs), they will never be necessary among viol consorts or clavichordists. Not all old instruments are safe to the ears, of course: bagpipes are as loud as freight trains, and a large double French harpsichord played in a small, live room has enough intensity in the upper partials to cause tinnitus if you practice day in and day out. Organs can do the same. Still, in general, early music players and listeners have little to fear from their focus on music and instruments from the quieter past.
http://www.bsherman.org/hearingloss.htm
Now, the worst has to be "rockers". But, I know many jazz trombone players who have pretty bad hearing because of the stinking trumpet players (the traditional setup is trumpets on top row standing, trombones on next row, standing and the saxes seated). A good friend who played in the "one o'clock lab band" at the University of North Texas has tinnitus.
Phillip
----- Original Message ----- From: "Lani Spahr" <lani_spahr@xxxxxxxxx>
that most players have hearing damage.
I'd like to see the data, actually. It's louder to the listener than the player. The sound comes out the chanter and shoots straight out, not up to the player. But you're right, it'll take the paint off the wall at 200 yards. They didn't call the Highland regiments "The Ladies from Hell" for nothing. :-)
Cheers, Lani Spahr (Mr)