Amplified music and sound level management; A multi stakeholder perspective

Abstract

Music induced hearing disorders and noise pollution are issues that emerge on the crossroads of society, technology and culture. Health aspects, as well as personal preferences inform the debate, policymaking and application of technologies, but in doing so the different stakeholders have to consider multifaceted nature of the issues. Rigorous application of strict rules inevitably leads to the closure of music venues, damaging the valuable live music industry. This paper argues that multidisciplinary approaches are required to reduce hearing risk at music concerts and related problems of noise pollution. From a broad look at the issues at large the paper segues to a narrow perspective looking at the interactions between stakeholders 'on the floor'. The paper argues that even though noise regulations and hearing risk mitigation policies may be different between nations and states, best practices originate from procedures and policies that are developed from an understanding of the multiple stakeholder perspective and that facilitate dialogues between the different agents involved.