Characterizing Aerosol Emissions from Musical Performances: A Scoping Review on Wind Instruments

Wind instrument performance generates respiratory aerosols that may contribute to the transmission of airborne diseases. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous studies have investigated aerosol emissions from wind instruments; however, differences in experimental design, measurement techniques, and study populations have led to inconsistent findings. This scoping review provides a comprehensive summary of the current evidence on aerosol emissions during wind instrument performance and examines the factors influencing aerosol generation. Publications available through July 1, 2026, were reviewed, and 8 eligible studies were included. The reviewed studies indicate that aerosol emissions are affected by instrument design, sound intensity, playing technique, performer physiology, and respiratory behavior. Aerosol concentrations generally increase with sound intensity, although the relationship varies among instrument types. Specialized playing techniques and individual performer characteristics can substantially alter aerosol emissions. Aerosol plumes are highly three-dimensional and may extend beyond the conventional 6-ft distancing guideline, while mitigation measures, including appropriately sized HEPA filtration and face coverings, effectively reduce aerosol exposure. However, direct comparison among studies remains difficult because of differences in experimental protocols, participant characteristics, and aerosol measurement techniques. Therefore, standardized study designs and measurement methods are needed to improve comparability across studies and to better identify the factors governing aerosol generation during wind instrument performance.