MUSIC

Lakewood, Colo., music students will have trouble playing by ear in Jefferson County’s schools since earplugs are now required in band rooms. The new policy stems a successful lawsuit filed against the school district by a music teacher who complained of hearing loss. Officials say the earplug policy is temporary until the district can install acoustical tile to absorb sound in the band rooms. Local band teacher Ken Sawyer said he is giving the earplugs a try, “but the kids consider them a complete joke.”