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Loud rock concerts may be getting some of Britain's most treasured historic buildings all shook up, new research suggests.A study at Hampton Court Palace found signs of windows becoming more "rattly" because of the sound vibrations.Bangs from firework displays held in the palace grounds also had an impact on windows, as well as mirrors and other objects mounted on outside walls.The research conducted at Hampton Court raises fears that pop and rock events held at many historic locations may be putting fragile old buildings at risk.Every June the palace near London hosts a three-week music festival attended by 2,500 people each night.The event is held in the inner courtyard of the palace, known as Base Court.It attracts major rock, pop and classical stars, who this year included Bryan Ferry,Tom Jones and opera tenor Jose Carreras. Conservation scientist Dr Ian Gibb, who led the study, said: "Anecdotal evidence had been reported of windows and brickwork in Base Court being affected, although we were never able to attribute this to acoustic vibration from the music festival."Sensors showed that vibration from the music did affect windows close to the stage - especially those already suffering from some decay."Bass frequencies, usually greater for pop concerts versus classical concerts, were found to increase the risk of damage," said Dr Gibb. The evidence for harm to brickwork was less certain but it was possible that music vibrations might worsen pre-existing problems such as frost damage.As in the days of Noah....
