I performed at two weddings this week with an exceptionally loud drummer and both times my right ear rang for two days. I'm performing with these guys another few times this and next week and am seriously concerned for my hearing.

I know that many people use regular ear plugs, but it really blocks the sound too much and makes it hard to perform and enjoy - especially since it blocks the music unevenly (high frequencies are affected the most).

Any solutions?

Yes, check out the shure sound isolating earphones. They have wireless systems as well.
http://store.shure.com/store/shure/en_US/list/categoryID.12165500

If you're looking for ear protection try these: http://earplugstore.stores.yahoo.net/profmusearpl1.html?gclid=CKPI6-S24JwCFRHxDAodWDHGJQ
or http://www.musiciansfriend.com/navigation?q=ear+plugs

For a cheapo solution, use an old pair of earbuds. Cut off any unnecessary wire. And my brother-in-law still swears by a cotton ball.

I use THESE . But have been considering springing for custom ear plugs from Etymotic Research .

Dave

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Wm. David McMahan
LearnMyKeyboard
JazzItUp Band
The Modulators

Hey, this is what I need for days I don't sound too good

The best solution is get a new drummer

This can be a very serious problem. I've experienced 80% hearing loss in my left ear. This is nerve damage and there is no known solution to this problem. Hearing aids will not help. The noises you experienced afterwards are a form of tennitus. (I best describe it as a buzzing or ringing in your ears). This sometimes will come and go. Mine stays with me almost all the time. When I play out or am in higher noise areas, I use E.A.R Noise Filters. They're made of foam and after compressing them and inserting them, will expand and conform to any ear. http://earplugstore.stores.yahoo.net/ebepvcfopl.html
I roll them tightly and sort of screw them into my ears. If they block too much sound, you can cut them shorter to allow more sound in, or don't screw them in as tightly. You can vary the length for each ear. If one ear is closest to the noise, leave the plug longer. BEWARE of some so-called ear doctors or audiologists. NEVER let them test your nerves by playing loud noises in your ears. This will worsen your hearing loss. After you wear these foam filters for a while, you will gradually get used to them. Sometimes, the noise that caused this problem (depending upon how long you were subjected to it) may affect the ear or ears only temporarily and the hearing will eventually return. I hope and pray that's true in your case. God Bless.
Gene

Chony,

Hearing loss is a serious problem, particularly among musicians. Gene hit the nail on the head. I have permanent Tinnitus from the lack of hearing protection when I was a kid in the U.S. Navy. Back then there was no such thing as hearing protection devices for those of us manning anti-aircraft guns. When those 3-inch diameter, 75-pound shells were fired the entire gun crew experienced immediate hearing loss. The loss lasted for two to three days at a time, and the recovery was subsequently diminished with each ensuing exposure. My brother-in-law, who served on the same ship with me, has the same problem.

Good Luck,

Gary

[This message has been edited by travlin'easy (edited 09-08-2009).]

..most frequently heard phrases uttered by those who still swear by a cotton ball........Huh? Wha'? Whaddja' say?



chas