Sound Level Management in Music Venues (2014-)

This interdisciplinary project is undertaken by Jos Mulder with a number of international collaborators in Europe and the USA. The research aims to inform evidence-based practice for live sound engineers (and other stakeholders such as musicians) to reduce the risks of hearing damage at (amplified) concerts and dance events. The main body of research situated in the specific ecologies of music venues of all sizes, venues which are generally characterized by their unique performance traditions, acoustic qualities and challenges. Longitudinal measurements have been combined with small interventions using real time monitoring systems to help mix engineers make informed decision with respect to the dynamics of the performance. 

The research crucially informed the developed of the WHO Global Standard on Entertainement Noise (2021).

ANU researchers: Jos Mulder. View Research page

External researchers: Derby University (UK) - Adam Hill and John Burton; Leiden University (NL) - Jan de Laat

Industry Partners: dBControl (NL) - Marcel Kok; Rational Acoustics (USA) - Michael Lawrence

Previous partners: Murdoch University; The HearingCRC - Elizabeth Beach, Robert Cowan, Siobhan McGinnity

Updated:  30 July 2024/Responsible Officer:  Head of School/Page Contact:  CASS Marketing & Communications