Amplified concerts
The concert you are attending is an amplified concert. This means that the sound of (some of) the instruments is amplified electrically or electronically. The Concertgebouw always adheres to the guidelines regarding sound volume. Nevertheless, it may be wise to take extra precautions to protect your hearing.
Earplugs
We recommend protecting your hearing by wearing earplugs with a music filter. These earplugs allow you to still hear the music clearly and communicate easily with other visitors. Simple earplugs (noise reducers) are available free of charge at our cloakroom. If you frequently attend concerts with amplified music, we recommend purchasing your own reusable earplugs, as these are of better quality and offer a better sound experience. This will allow you to continue enjoying concerts for a long time to come.
More information about preventing hearing damage when visiting venues with amplified music can be found at ilovemyears.nl.
Animation about hearing damage (in Dutch)
Noise standard for amplified concerts
The RIVM standard is 103 decibels. At The Concertgebouw, we apply a standard of 100 dB. The RIVM recommendation specifies three limit values, depending on a person's age. For children up to the age of 13, a limit value of 91 decibels is recommended; for children aged 14 and 15, 96 decibels; and for people aged 16 and over, 102 decibels. All values are averages, measured over a period of 15 minutes.
The acoustics of The Concertgebouw
The Concertgebouw is renowned for its acoustics for classical music. Architect Dolf van Gendt designed the building and the halls specifically for this purpose. In the 1960s, The Concertgebouw also became the venue for pop concerts, as Paradiso and the Melkweg had not yet been established. Amplified concerts are still regularly held in the Concertgebouw. In addition to the specific adjustment of the speakers, various acoustic measures have been taken, such as sound-absorbing panels on the back wall and a sound-absorbing curtain in the ridge. The Concertgebouw works together with experienced sound engineers for this. In addition, artists often bring their own sound engineer, who works together with our audio partner.