It’s a common sight at summer concerts to see children carried on their parents’ shoulders. Hearing specialists, however, have words of caution about this.
“If children are lifted up on shoulders so they can see better, they may be subjected to a lot of noise,” says Antti Aarnisalo, consultant at Helsinki University Hospital’s ear clinic.
The carried child is in fact subjected to more noise than the adult beneath. This, according to Aarnisalo, is because the crowds absorb sound energy, protecting the adult from excessive exposure.
“Children are more sensitive to noise. Their ears are not as accustomed to loud sounds as the ears of adults. For this reason, ear protection is important.”
Aarnisalo has been pleased to see different kinds of ear protection meant for children appearing on the market.
The sweet spot
Fortunately, festival P.A. systems have developed so much in recent times that audiences at many gigs don’t have to worry about suffering hearing loss.
At bigger festivals, modern speaker technology and ear monitoring for musicians have reduced the worst noise. However, some music events still operate with old fashioned amplification.
Where one positions oneself in the audience has a big effect on the noise one is subjected to. These days music lovers can often enjoy shows without ear protection when positioned in the middle of the crowd. The best place for sound is close to the sound-mixer’s table, some 30-50 meters away from the stage.
Common sense
If one is standing next to the stage, ear protection – such as plugs – are recommended.
”Of course it’s nice to be close to the artists, to see the sweat dripping from their nose tips. However, this can be dangerous, as the volume is so much higher on stage,” warns Kauko Saari from the Finnish Federation of Hard of Hearing.
Although P.A. systems have come a long way, a lot comes down to one’s own individual judgement and common sense. Sensitivity of hearing varies greatly from person to person.
Some may find their ears ringing and dull after a small club gig. Those with sensitive ears should come to concerts prepared, with appropriate hearing protection.
However, it’s important to know how to use protection such as earplugs correctly. One should read the instructions and fit the plugs in the ears in correct fashion, Saari advises.
