Sage City Symphony

COVID Notes for Wind and Brass Players

There are several studies about COVID transmission via wind instruments that indicate that some instruments pose higher risks (e.g., trumpets) than others. Risk-reduction measures include (1) rearranging players so the more risky instruments are closer to the outside edges of the group (and if possible, near exhaust systems), while less dangerous instruments (e.g., percussion) go into the middle; (2) wearing face masks designed especially for wind and brass players; and (3) using bell covers.

Even if everyone is vaccinated, the Delta variant may warrant additional caution, with masks on non-winds, and the repositioning of winds per these recommendations. Below is the link to the general-public article, and if you're interested in one of the referenced technical articles, it is attached. 

nontechnical article: https://www.sciencenews.org/article/coronavirus-covid-music-wind-instruments-spread-transmission 

technical article: Journal of Aerosol Science 151 (2021) 105669

Research is ongoing; see https://www.nfhs.org/articles/unprecedented-international-coalition-led-by-performing-arts-organizations-to-commission-covid-19-study/.

Bell Covers and Instrument Masks

Bell covers help contain the spread of aerosols during instrument play. Recent studies show bell covers with a multi-layering material and filtration should be used. MERV 13 filters can be cut to fit and easily inserted in the back opening of the bell cover to provide enhanced protection as recommended by the University of Colorado aerosol study. MERV 13 material is readily available at most home improvement stores.

Here are some examples of bell covers:

https://sepapparel.com/bell-cover.html

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=bell+covers+for+instruments&i=mi&crid=3CM8HTTR2VHMT&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_10

And here are some examples of instrument masks for wind players:

https://sepapparel.com/instrument-mask.html

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=instrument+mask+for+wind+players&ref=nb_sb_noss_2