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Analysis November 2026: Hearing loss in professional musicians

2026-10-16T08:10:44.843

BBC Proms_ Mahlers Tragic Sixth_photocredit BBC Mark Allan_22.07.26 (21)

A recent study has shown that one in four musicians has reported some form of hearing loss. Peter Somerford looks at what measures classical players can take to mitigate the risks.

Recent studies of hearing loss among musicians have reinforced the need for both employers and players to take protective measures at work. A 2025 study of musicians in the orchestra of La Scala Milan (bit.ly/46iRJ1Q) found several cases of hearing loss from chronic acoustic trauma, with violinists having a higher incidence of left-ear hearing impairment. It concluded that ‘the high levels of sound exposure and the presence of some hearing loss cases highlight the need for targeted preventative measures.’…

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