(in 2 parts owing to length restrictions) - part 1 of 2

I think this is such a poignant issue at the moment, I am a musician and find in most circumstances, even when performing, that I have to wear earplugs in order not to damage my hearing in the long term. However, comments like this also ignore what I think is an equally important issue; the generally increasing level of noise in our cities and a complete lack of acoustic design in most situations. You only have to ride a bike in London to understand that you are faced with a continual barrage of sound which exceeds acceptable levels; from the increased loudness of car horns, jackhammers, busses and trucks and their insanely loud squeaky breaks, to the fact that no bars and pubs consider it a viable option not to play music (if you have to shout, your throat gets parched and you drink more).

Sam Britton, London,

(in 2 parts owing to length restrictions) - part 2 of 2

The fact is, musical performances are increasing in volume both to counter the relative level of background noise and to cater to larger and larger audiences. Whereas a hundred years ago, the largest scale of performance was a symphony orchestra, in which a crescendo would have been considered near deafeningly loud, today, where one person and a guitar can make enough sound to fill a stadium, it is simply not in the same league. I think it's right to point out that a lot of concerts are too loud, but I feel the solution lies not necessarily in outright legislation against it, but a more thorough consideration of the causes. I believe that if, in England, we had as much respect for acoustics and sound engineers (as they do in Germany and the USA), and these professions were more actively consulted out of responsibility to audiences and the general public alike, we would all be much better off.

Sam Britton, London,

When I was younger, much younger, I used to attend punk, heavy metal and thrash metal gigs on a regular basis, sometimes as many as three in a week.

I now find it difficult to hear certain tones in peoples voices, which makes listening to the radio or music, and watching TV, difficult. I need the sound turned up.

There are several news presenters that I simply cannot hear properly, particularly on BBC News, and if I am watching a film with my sister, I have to ask for the sound to be turned up.

I am positive it is the decibels that caused this. Would I change it if I could? Not likely, I had a whale of a time and still enjoy the odd gig today. Love it. Keep music live!

Jennifer Hynes, Plymouth, England