Sound Energy Levels Produced by a Choral Ensemble: Considering the Risk of Music-Induced Hearing Loss

Abstract
Choral ensemble instruction serves a prominent role in the music education of students from primary to postsecondary schools. While the field of performing arts health is growing, minimal research has been implemented on the hearing-health concerns of choral ensemble participants or choral conductors/directors. The purpose of this study was to assess the sound-level creation of a collegiate choir and assess the conductor’s risk for hearing problems from sound level exposure according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) criteria. Dosimeter measurements were taken over five consecutive rehearsal periods of an elite, collegiate a cappella ensemble. The overall sound exposure was compared to the OSHA/NIOSH standards. Because the NIOSH organization focuses on research, rather than regulation and enforcement, and because it is more conservative in its approach to conservation, its standard was deemed the best fit for the demands of music making and was thus used moving forward throughout the study. The mean dose (NIOSH) per event was 5.76%, ranging from 4.87% to 7.72%; this is the percentage of a total safe daily dose. The average difference between Leq measurements at C (LCeq) and A (LAeq) weightings was 1.66dB. These findings reflect a lower dose exposure compared to similar instrumental studies and supports the need for further research within the choral musician population.

Keywords: dosimeter, hearing health, hearing conservation, choral hearing health, sound level exposure, choral pedagogy, TEKS, NASM