[TPIN] Earplug in Orchestras Topic TPIN

[Michael Goode]

Hi Michael,

I have had the same problem playing at Ravinia when I sit next to the 
timpani.   I have used both the custom earplugs with the 15 db filters 
and 33 db foam earplug in one ear.

I put both earplugs in during long rests and tacet movements as 
discreetly as possible so the audience sees very little movement and 
try to pretend I am reaching down for a mute or something like that.   
No one has complained yet.   Before we start to play, then I put one 
earplug in the ear that is right next to the timpani.  For this, 
sometimes I use the 33 db foam plug or sometimes I use the custom 15 db 
one, depending on what we are playing so that I can still gauge the 
intonation, balance and timbre of what we are doing correctly.

Also, I would highly recommend sleeping at night with a pair of 33 db 
foam earplugs in your ear.  This actually gives the ears time to 
recover from the damage done during the day and it actually works.   
There is a great story about this from a doctor in the book Playing 
While Hurt in which this doctor actually restored his hearing which was 
completely damaged by eliminating all sound.    A drastic example, to 
be sure, but good proof that the technique of eliminating excessive 
sound when not on the job works to restore your hearing.   Also, don't 
practice in any room that is exceptionally "live" ;  this is really bad 
for your ears.   Try to practice in an environment that is between dead 
and live if you can.   Of course, for resonance and free-blowing 
purposes you can occasionally play in a more "live" environment so that 
your playing does not become too forced.   My two cents on this issue.

Best,

Michael Goode
Author and Performer
Stage Fright in Music Performance and Its Relationship to the 
Unconscious
Principal Trumpet and General Manager
Chicago Reading Orchestra
University of Chicago MLA
in psychoneuromusicology
Member, Performing Arts Medicine Association
www.trumpetworkspress.com