Hearing loss has been difficult to avoid for many musicians – especially those playing in the lively and dynamic Peking Opera.
For dedicated musician Yao Hong, professional music has been a lifelong passion. “I started to learn Huqin (a traditional Chinese instrument) when I was five,” he says, “and I applied for the School of Chinese Theater Arts at 13.”
His wife adds, “The working environment at the Peking Opera is quite noisy, especially during acrobatic fighting scenes.”
Yao Hong continues: “The gong player stood and played the gong next to me. As a result it caused me to have hearing loss.”
Communication between us became more friendly and more natural. The hearing aids help me stay devoted to the work I’m engaged in, to live life youthfully, to create connections, and enjoy happiness in my life.
“While watching TV, I used to turn the uvolumep to a very high level. The noise made my wife extremely uncomfortable. After beginning to wear hearing aids with Bluetooth®, I can turn down the TV volume.”
It was strenuous to communicate with you
“While speaking with others I often had to ask them to repeat their words,” says the music maestro.
His wife continues: “Sometimes, while driving around, he would respond with “huh?” during our conversations.”
Turning to him, she says, “It was a strenuous job to communicate with you. It was time to get you a pair of hearing aids.”
Like I’m back to my youth
“I felt so good after I started wearing the hearing aids,” says Yao Hong. “The sound is soft and clear, and I can hear more than before – especially when listening from a distance.”
As well as a deeper enjoyment of the music he loves, he has noticed a far broader improvement. “Communication has also changed. Barriers are gone. It seems like I am back to my youth,” he says.
With better hearing, he has also noticed an improvement in his relationship with his wife. As he describes it: “Communication between us became more friendly and more natural. The hearing aids bring me great benefits and convenience.”
Stories from people with hearing loss
I just got tired of always asking folks to repeat themselves. I purchased a pair and now I hear so much better!
Kate Johnstone, United States
After purchasing hearing aids, I was able to enjoy conversation with friends and increased going out and interacting.
Female, Japan
I would put the volume very loud on the television, which is no longer the case.
Lyliane Berthe, France