[TPIN] Musicians Earplugs

[Steve Evans]

----- Original Message ----
From: Michael Anderson manderson at okcu.edu

 
Anyone else deal with this issue in their orch?
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This is amusing in a twisted sort of way. Typically it's others complaining about the trumpets. At least that's the case in our orchestra. Specifically, the bassoonists. Or more specifically, one bassoonist - and the nicest guy too which makes it even worse. At first we (the trumpets) were offended. Then we tried to tone it down which just didn't help anyone especially us. Then we said, the h3ll with it, and played as usual which didn't help him. Finally, after enough awkwardness (like I said, I really like the guy and he had a legitimate complaint) we were shuffled around enough to appease without hurting the blend and balance. Of course that translated means "put the trumpets behind someone who won't complain."
 
It's a difficult situation for all concerned. You don't want to damage your hearing yet you also want the orchestra to sound as great as is possible. That can't happen when people either have their ears plugged or are self-conscious about how loud they're playing and at whom their sound is directed.
 
You would never have this situation in a working big band. Too much machismo. 
 
...Steve

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