Question concerning volume and your place in the orchestra

[Stinsok]

I have no clue as to the dynamics involved in playing in an orchestra. On the BG side, you see many posts about being too loud. Does that happen to you as an orchestra player? Do you dig it? Ever have trouble hearing yourself? In a rock band, the guitars are always way too loud-is there an orchestral instrument that you complain about? Thanks!

[Square Bear]

if you're in the firing range of the brass section, it can be deafening. many orchestras use plexiglass shields to put behind anyone who has to be in front of them. hearing yourself is not too much of an issue, but being heard in the audience or across the stage can be a problem. depending on the hall, there can be dead spots that will make the basses inaudible.