BELL COVERS & FACE MASKS FOR THE SAFETY OF WIND INSTRUMENT PLAYERS
With many schools around the country getting ready to resume in person band and orchestra programs look to NEMC for the protective equipment needed to limit aerosol transmission and more safely resume in person instruction.
Why are aerosols important? Scientific research now indicates that Covid-19 can be spread by aerosols produced when we speak, laugh, sing or even breath.
Source: Internations coalitiion of Performing Arts Aerosol Study 8/6/2020 https://www.nfhs.org/articles/unprecedented-international-coalition-led-by-performing-arts-organizations-to-commission-covid-19-study/
According to a study currently underway University of Colorado, although the design of the mouthpiece and instrument tubing constricts the airflow exiting the instrument, playing a wind instrument produces aerosols and droplets in quantities higher than normal breathing or speaking. Fortunately for students of schools around the country that are resuming band programs, mitigation recommendations were released in late August by Dr. James Weaver, Director of Performing Arts and Sports with the NFHS. They include using instrument bell covers and face masks, improved classroom ventilation and limiting the size and duration of rehearsals that when combined can make playing as safe as other in school activities.
Image and article credit: Give A Note Foundation
MUSIC EDUCATOR ORGANIZATIONS UNITE
SO NASHVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
CAN STRIKE UP THE BAND
GIVE A NOTE’S LET’S PLAY MUSIC FUND
enlists support from SAVE THE MUSIC,
SONGFARM, GIBSON GIVES and MUSIC MAKES US
delivering specially designed PPE to let
the school bands play on – SAFELY!
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Unlike other masks with just a slit to accommodate the mouthpiece, this musical instrument face mask was specifically designed for wind instrument players with a true embouchure opening making it easier to align the mouthpiece into proper playing position. A unique front flap that automatically closes when the mouthpiece is removed provides superior protection during rests but does not impede the performer’s ability to take in enough air for even the most demanding musical passages. Now updated with a slightly thicker washable poly-stretch and adjustable elastic ear loops for a more comfortable fit. Sewn with pride in Pennsylvania using 100% American made fabric. Pair with our polypropylene filter-compatible bell cover for a complete protection solution. |
| | Bell Cover
from $5.50 (school net)The same University of Colorado study found aerosol emissions near the bell of all wind instruments. Fortunately, those emissions can be materially reduced with the use of a properly designed instrument bell covers. Ours is constructed using 190-gram 80D polyester spandex jersey with a unique mesh pocket for our optional polypropylene filter, or other comparable filter insert. Because the rubber in elastic can discolor lacquered brass and silver plating ours is embedded in a seam within the fabric for protection. Available in sizes to fit most instruments with up to 12-inch bell diameter. |
 | | Filter Insert
for Instrument Bell Covers
from $2.65 (school net) Provides enhanced filtration and significantly more mitigation than using bell cover alone, as recommended by University of Colorado aerosol study. The non-woven meltblown polypropylene filter traps particles down to .03 micros. Available in sizes to fit bell covers for most instruments with up to 12-inch bell diameter. |
10% of the profits from all safety equipment sold has been pledged to the
Give A Note Foundation to help them provide safety equipment to those in need.
