Nearly Half of Musicians Have Tinnitus: What the Latest Research Reveals
While music brings a wealth of happiness and creativity, new research highlights a serious health concern within the music community. A large international study published in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and discussed in an article by Hearing Practitioner Australia1 has found that nearly half of musicians experience tinnitus, with many also affected by hearing loss and sound sensitivity.
At Knox Audiology, we work with performers, music teachers, students and hobbyists alike who are passionate about their craft. This latest research reinforces what hearing professionals like us have long observed: musicians face a significantly higher risk of auditory challenges, regardless of genre.
The Study: What Did Researchers Find?
The systematic review and meta-analysis pooled data from 67 studies across 21 countries, including more than 28,000 musicians.
The findings:
• 42.6% of musicians reported tinnitus, compared with 13.2% in non-musicians.
• 25.7% had hearing loss, compared with 11.6% in control populations.
• 37.3% reported hyperacusis (sound sensitivity), compared with 15.3% of non-musicians.
In other words, musicians were significantly more likely to experience tinnitus, hearing loss, and hyperacusis than people in other industries or professions.
Among musicians with tinnitus:
76.3% described their symptoms as occasional
15.6% reported permanent tinnitus
The study also noted that about 63% of hearing loss cases were based on self-report, while only 37% were confirmed through objective hearing tests. Researchers suggested the true prevalence of hearing damage may actually be higher.
Not Just Rock Bands, Risk Across All Genres
Interestingly, the study found no significant difference in rates of tinnitus, hearing loss or hyperacusis between classical and pop/rock musicians.
Although pop/rock musicians showed slightly higher hearing loss rates and classical musicians slightly higher tinnitus and hyperacusis rates, the statistic differences were not overly significant.
This challenges the common belief that only “loud” genres carry serious risk. The findings suggest that auditory danger extends across all musical styles, from symphony halls to small clubs. Researchers believe that risk may depend more on:
• Instrument type
• Seating position within ensembles
• Room acoustics
• Rehearsal duration
• Personal hearing protection habits
• Exposure to other loud hobbies rather than music genre alone
Why Musicians Are at Higher Risk
Tinnitus, often described as ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears, frequently develops after repeated noise exposure. Musicians may experience:
• High decibel levels during rehearsals and performances
• Prolonged exposure over years or decades
• Close proximity to amplifiers, percussion, brass or monitors
• Inconsistent use of hearing protection
Hyperacusis, or sound sensitivity, can also develop alongside tinnitus. This makes everyday sounds feel uncomfortable or overwhelming – a particularly distressing condition for someone whose career revolves around sound.
The study’s author Professor Shaun Nguyen, noted that many musicians “quietly live with ringing ears, sound sensitivity, or hearing loss,” often without seeking help.
He also emphasised the need for more personalised, musician-specific risk profiling to provide practical, tailored advice that protects hearing without compromising performance.
The Hidden Culture of “Pushing Through”
In the music industry, tinnitus and hearing symptoms are often normalised. Many performers assume ringing ears after a show is just “part of the job.”
But persistent tinnitus is a warning sign.
Left unmanaged, hearing damage can:
• Affect pitch perception
• Impact timing and clarity
• Reduce confidence in performance
• Lead to mental fatigue
• Increase anxiety or stress
For professional musicians, hearing is not just a sense, it’s a livelihood.
Protecting Hearing Without Sacrificing Music
The research strongly recommends tailored strategies for musicians, including:
• Regular auditory assessments
• Education on safe listening practices
• Guidance specific to instrument and performance environments
• Improved awareness of hearing protection use
At Knox Audiology, we provide musician-focused hearing care, including:
• Comprehensive baseline hearing testing
• Tinnitus assessment and management
• Custom musician earplugs designed to preserve sound clarity while reducing volume
• Monitoring of subtle high-frequency changes
• Personalised advice based on instrument, venue type and performance frequency
• Modern musician earplugs can reduce sound evenly across frequencies, maintaining musical balance while protecting long-term hearing.
Early Detection Makes a Difference
One important takeaway from the study is that much hearing loss was self-reported rather than measured. This suggests some musicians may underestimate or overlook early warning signs.
Early hearing assessments can detect changes before they significantly affect performance. This allows musicians to adjust rehearsal habits, improve monitoring setups, optimise ear protection and manage tinnitus proactively. The earlier intervention occurs, the better the outcome.
Are You a Musician Experiencing Ringing or Sensitivity?
If you notice:
• Ringing or buzzing after rehearsals
• Sound sensitivity
• Difficulty hearing subtle musical details
• Needing higher monitor volume
• Fatigue after performances
It’s worth having your hearing checked.
Tinnitus does not mean your musical career is over. With the right guidance and protection strategies, many musicians continue to perform confidently for decades.
Supporting Musicians’ Hearing Health
The Audiology team at Knox Audiology understands that musicians need hearing solutions that respect both artistry and ear health. Whether you’re a professional performer, teacher, student or weekend gig musician, we can help you:
• Assess your hearing
• Understand your tinnitus
• Develop protective strategies
• Maintain clarity and confidence in your music
Book a Hearing Test Today
Your hearing keeps you connected and it’s important to protect it. It’s also important to benchmark your hearing so we can keep an ear to the ground on if your hearing changes. Call 03 9800 5697 or contact Knox Audiology to book a comprehensive hearing assessment.