Category: Blog

Starkey Signature Series: World’s first custom rechargeable hearing aid

starkey signature series

Hearing aid manufacturer Starkey has unveiled their Signature Series, a brand-new line of custom hearing aids with world-first features.

It’s their smallest line of custom-made products with three non-wireless custom hearing aids, including the world’s smallest custom rechargeable hearing aid.

Starkey Signature Series

The series includes three different styles, all fitted with Starkey’s award-winning Neuro Sound Technology which is designed to make it easier to distinguish words and speech more naturally, hear soft sounds without distracting noise and reduce listening effort. The Signature Series follows their artisan customisation process and service to create the perfect custom hearing aid.

Signature CIC R NW

The world’s smallest custom rechargeable Completely-In-the ear-Canal hearing aid. The all-new Signature CIC R NW is a discreet, rechargeable hearing aid whose charge lasts up to 38 hours and is waterproof up to 1 metre.

CIC R NW

Signature CIC NW

A battery-operated Completely-In-the-ear-Canal version for patients who prefer the flexibility of zinc-air batteries.

CIC NW

Signature IIC NW

The smallest-of-small Invisible-In-the-ear-Canal hearing aids, for those preferring an extremely discreet solution.

Signature IIC NW

Starkey Signature Hearing Aid Colours

All models are available in six colour options ranging from black and dark brown to light brown and pink, to suit the preferences of the wearer.

The Completely-In-the-ear-Canal models also come with five shell colour options; white, medium brown, light brown, black and a duo-tone red & blue option.

Completely-In-the-ear-Canal R NW

starkey signature series CIC R NW colour options

Completely-In-the-ear-Canal NW

starkey signature series CIC NW colour options

Invisible-In-the-ear-Canal NW

starkey signature series IIC NW colour options (2)

Key features of Starkey Signature Series

  • Virtually invisible: Sit comfortably inside your ear, discreet to others.
  • Transparent sound: Neuro Sound Technology delivers clear and true sound, the way the brain intended.
  • Custom-fit to you: Starkey Signature Series hearing aids are custom fit to your unique hearing needs.
  • Neuro Sound Technology: Starkey’s industry-leading technology delivers soft sounds without noise and natural speech whilst significantly reducing their listening effort.
  • Edge Mode: uses AI to optimise sound quality on-demand for clearer speech or improved listening comfort at the push of a button.

President and CEO at Starkey, Brandon Sawalich, said: “With the introduction of Signature Series, the world’s first fully custom rechargeable hearing aid, and even better sound quality to Genesis AI, Starkey continues its drive to deliver the most intuitive, convenient, and patient-driven hearing products in the industry—further proving the best never rests.”

Starkey’s has introduced the world’s smallest custom rechargeable hearing aids with their latest release. Starkey Signature Series is designed to deliver clear, true-to-life sound in advanced technology custom fit to hide discreetly in your ear.

starkey signature series

Starkey Hearing Aids at Harley Street Hearing

Harley Street Hearing are proud to offer the brand new Signature Series, along with all other Starkey hearing aids to our patients. Our highly trained clinical audiologists can advise on the most suitable hearing aid for your unique hearing needs.

To book a hearing consultation, call us or fill in the contact form below.

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AI Headphones That Focus on a ‘Single Speaker’ in a Crowd

AI Headphones

Engineers Develop Groundbreaking AI Hearing System

Engineers have created an innovative artificial intelligence system, named ‘Target Speech Hearing’, that empowers headphone users to focus on a single speaker in a crowded and noisy environment. By simply looking at the person speaking for three to five seconds, the system ‘enrols’ the speaker’s voice. After enrolment, the system isolates and plays back only that speaker’s voice in real-time, even as the listener and speaker move around.

Advancements in Noise-Canceling Technology

Traditional noise-canceling headphones are effective at creating a quiet listening experience by blocking out background noise. However, they often struggle to selectively allow important sounds through. For instance, the latest Apple AirPods Pro can adjust sound levels when the wearer is in a conversation but lack the precision to let the user choose exactly who to listen to and when.

The findings were presented on May 14 in Honolulu at the ACM CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems. The proof-of-concept device’s code is available for further development, though the system itself is not yet commercially available.

AI Headphones

Innovative Use of AI in Hearing

“We tend to think of AI now as web-based chatbots that answer questions,” said senior author Shyam Gollakota, a UW professor in the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering. “But in this project, we develop AI to modify the auditory perception of anyone wearing headphones, given their preferences. With our devices, you can now hear a single speaker clearly even if you are in a noisy environment with lots of other people talking.”

How It Works

Users wearing modified off-the-shelf headphones with integrated microphones can activate the system by pressing a button while facing the speaker. The microphones capture the sound waves, and the system processes these signals to identify and learn the speaker’s vocal patterns. The AI then isolates this voice and continually enhances its clarity, even as the speaker and listener move around.

User Testing and Future Developments

In tests with 21 subjects, the clarity of the enrolled speaker’s voice was rated nearly twice as high as unfiltered audio. The system can currently enrol only one speaker at a time and requires a relatively quiet background when enrolling a new speaker. If sound quality is unsatisfactory, users can re-enrol the speaker for improved clarity.

The team aims to expand this technology to earbuds and hearing aids, enhancing accessibility and convenience.

At Harley Street Hearing we keep ahead of everything new in hearing technology. If you would like to come in for a hearing consultation contact us.

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Discover the Power of Invisible Hearing Aids – Lyric

Breakthrough Gene Therapy for Inherited Deafness

Importance of Hearing Aids Fitted by a Professional

Research Support, Collaboration and Reference

This research involved contributions from Bandhav Veluri, Malek Itani, Tuochao Chen (UW doctoral students), and Takuya Yoshioka (director of research at AssemblyAI). It was funded by a Moore Inventor Fellow award, a Thomas J. Cable Endowed Professorship, and a UW CoMotion Innovation Gap Fund.

Veluri, B., Itani, M., Chen, T., Yoshioka, T., Gollakota, S. “Look Once to Hear: Target Speech Hearing with Noisy Examples.” ACM CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, 2024. DOI: 10.1145/3613904.3642057

Breakthrough Gene Therapy Offers Hope for Inherited Deafness

In a significant stride forward, gene therapy has emerged as a beacon of hope for those grappling with inherited deafness. Opal Sandy, a young girl from Oxfordshire born deaf, has recently achieved a remarkable milestone: hearing unaided in the treated ear, thanks to this groundbreaking treatment.

Opal’s Journey: From Deafness to Hearing

Opal underwent the pioneering gene therapy shortly before her first birthday. Within a mere six months, she began to perceive even the softest sounds and started vocalising words like “Mama,” “Dada,” and “uh-oh.” This infusion directly into her ear targeted the faulty DNA responsible for her specific type of inherited deafness.

More than half of hearing loss cases in children have genetic causes. Opal’s is due to DNA she inherited, meaning she was born deaf. Shortly before her first birthday, doctors at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge, gave her the pioneering treatment. And now six months on, she can hear sounds as soft as a whisper and is starting to talk. Her parents, Jo and James, faced the daunting decision to allow Opal to be the first recipient of this treatment, produced by Regeneron. Yet, driven by the prospect of transforming their daughter’s life, they embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly. Hear Opal’s story here.

Opal’s success story illuminates the potential of gene therapy in tackling various forms of profound hearing loss. Unlike traditional interventions like hearing aids or cochlear implants, which amplify sound, gene therapy targets the root cause by delivering a functional copy of the Otof gene into affected cells.

How Hearing Gene Therapy Works

A Global Trial of Promising Prospects

Participating in a trial spanning the UK, US, and Spain, supported by NIHR Cambridge Clinical Research Facility and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Opal embodies hope for countless others with similar conditions. Parallel efforts are underway in countries like China, investigating treatments for the Otof gene mutation, mirroring Opal’s journey.

The trial’s chief investigator and ear surgeon at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Professor Manohar Bance said “Children with a variation in the Otof gene are born with severe to profound hearing loss, but they often pass the new-born hearing screening so everyone thinks they can hear. The hair cells are working, but they are not talking to the nerve.”

The ramifications of this breakthrough extend far beyond Opal’s individual journey. Researchers foresee broader applications for gene therapy in addressing genetic causes of hearing loss in children.

Paediatric-hearing-testsHearing Hearing Tests for Children

At Harley Street Hearing we carry out hearing tests for children if you have concerns for your child’s hearing and want to see what options are available now please call us on 020 7486 1053 or complete the form below

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Discover the Power of Invisible Hearing Aids: Phonak Lyric

Lyric On Finger

Are you among the 62% of people who haven’t heard of the Phonak Lyric invisible hearing aid? Or perhaps you’re part of the 38% who have, but aren’t aware of the latest developments? Either way, we have some exciting news that could transform your hearing experience.

Why Choose the Truly Invisible Phonak Lyric Hearing Aid?

The Phonak Lyric hearing aid is a game-changer for many of our patients who would otherwise resist wearing hearing aids. If you’ve been struggling to hear in restaurants, adjusting your television volume, or finding it hard to follow conversations in group settings, Phonak Lyric could be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Here’s why:

  • Invisibility: Lyric is placed deep in the ear canal, making it 100% invisible. You can experience better hearing without anyone knowing you’re wearing a hearing aid.
  • Continuous Use: Lyric is worn 24/7 for between 2-3 months at a time. It’s hassle-free and requires no maintenance or batteries to change or charge. You can shower, exercise, and even sleep with it.
  • Natural Sound Quality: Lyric uses the ear’s natural anatomy to amplify and give you a full, natural listening experience. It’s particularly popular with musicians who find its sound more natural than digital hearing aids.
  • Tinnitus Relief: Many of our patients have reported that the constant amplification and stimulation of the auditory system provided by Lyric can help relieve tinnitus symptoms and improve sleep quality.
  • Self-Replacement: As of May 2024, the FDA has cleared self-replacement for Lyric users. This means you can change the device yourself, reducing your visits to the audiologist by 50%.

Is Phonak Lyric Right for You?

If you’re interested in the Phonak Lyric invisible hearing aid, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your audiologist at an approved Lyric Centre. They can provide more information, assess your suitability, and even train you on self-insertion if appropriate.

Don’t let hearing challenges hold you back. Harley Street Hearing are the Number 1 Lyric Hearing Clinic in Europe.  Contact us today for an appointment and a risk-free trial of this revolutionary hearing aid technology. Experience the difference Phonak Lyric can make in your life. We look forward to helping you on your journey to better hearing.

Phonak Invisible Hearing Aid ‘Lyric’ Review

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing and the content creator for Hearing Tracker, where he shares his honest opinions on all things to do with hearing health and hearing aid technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly independent resource for hearing aid customers. So for more detailed information on Lyric, the world’s only truly invisible hearing aid, see Matthew’s review below.

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NHS vs private hearing aids: What’s the difference?

nhs vs private hearing aids

The role that hearing aids play when it comes to managing hearing loss can’t be disputed. Hearing loss is something that cannot be reversed, and if left untreated it can worsen over time. Hearing aids can transform an individual’s ability to hear and ultimately improve their quality of life.

However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, there are so many types of hearing aids that the choice can be a little overwhelming for someone seeking advice. On top of that, there are multiple hearing aid providers available. Do you seek help from the NHS, a high street chain, or a private independent audiologist?

We understand that there can often be a lot of confusion around the options available to you, so hopefully this article will give you a clear understanding of the difference between the NHS and private hearing aids and the services offered across the sector.

nhs vs private hearing aids

Understanding NHS hearing aids

NHS hearing aids are provided free of charge through the UK’s healthcare system, provided the individual meets the eligibility criteria. This is determined based on factors such as the severity of hearing loss, medical history and impact on quality of life.

Typically, individuals need to be referred to an NHS audiologist by their GP or another healthcare professional before undergoing a series of tests and assessments to determine their eligibility.

What hearing aids are available on the NHS

NHS hearing aids can cater to different levels of hearing loss from mild to severe, but are typically always behind-the-ear (BTE) models with standard functionality designed to provide basic amplification. For some individuals, or depending on regions or trusts, smaller in-the-ear (ITE) options may be available.

As standard, NHS hearing aids are digital models that can be adjusted to suit an individual’s hearing needs but the range of available models and technology levels is usually quite limited. They tend to be older, more basic models that don’t offer the latest advancements in technology with limited colour options and you may not get a choice in the type of hearing aid.

Pros and cons of NHS hearing aids

Pros:

  • Cost-effective: NHS hearing aids are free if you’re eligible for them, making them a budget-friendly option.
  • Widely available: The national healthcare system is available to people who are ordinarily resident in the UK, making it accessible to a large percentage of the population.

Cons:

  • Limited choice: The NHS doesn’t offer a large range of manufacturers or models and the options for customisation are restricted.
  • Longer waiting times: Individuals require a referral to undergo an NHS hearing test and due to a lack of resources, the waiting time for these appointments, and subsequent follow-up appointments for adjustments, can be significantly long.
  • Older technology: NHS hearing aids typically don’t offer the latest technology which can impact performance and ultimately the benefits that an individual can gain from hearing aids.
  • Eligibility criteria: This can be stringent, meaning that some people with mild to moderate hearing loss may not qualify for NHS hearing aids.

nhs hearing aid

Understanding private hearing aids

Private hearing aids are offered by independent audiology clinics, as well as some larger high street chains. Unlike the NHS, these are paid for by the individual but they don’t require a referral from a GP or any other medical professional.

Anyone can book an appointment directly with a private audiologist for a hearing consultation to assess their hearing loss and discuss the hearing aid options available to them.

Hearing aids offered by private audiologists

Independent audiology providers like ourselves at Harley Street Hearing have access to an extensive range of hearing aids from every manufacturer. That’s what makes us independent, as we’re not tied to one manufacturer we can offer completely unbiased advice suggesting the hearing aids that are right for your personal requirements, high street chains do not have this flexibility.

Working directly with leading manufacturers such as Oticon, Phonak, Starkey, Widex and many more, we have direct access to the most advanced technology on the market, quite often before anyone else as manufacturers bring their products to us to trial and review.

This technology ranges from features such as advanced connectivity options, noise reduction and powerful sensors that can adapt to your hearing needs when your listening environment changes.

Along with advanced technology, there are many different designs, styles and colour options available when buying privately. This includes completely discreet invisible hearing aids that are worlds apart from the standard Behind-The-Ear models offered by the NHS.

For private patients, this means that their hearing aid choices can be truly personalised depending on the level of technology they want, their unique hearing challenges and aesthetic preferences.

Pros and cons of private hearing aids

Pros:

  • Advanced technology: Access to the latest hearing technology which is continually evolving, to ensure your hearing aids are helping you to hear optimally every day. Typically four technology generations ahead of NHS options.
  • Wide range of options: Greater control over the style of hearing aid chosen, with the ability to customise to your preferences.
  • Personalised service: Comprehensive assessments, fitting and ongoing support to enhance your journey to better hearing. At Harley Street Hearing once you become one of our valued patients, any subsequent adjustments or hearing aftercare is complimentary for life.

Cons:

  • Higher initial cost: Private hearing aids come with a premium price which varies depending on the level of technology you require, however, payment plans are available should you wish to help spread the cost. Harley Street Hearing also offers a 30-day trial, so you can try before you buy.

Signia IX Pure Charge&Go Hearing Aids

Are private hearing aids better than NHS?

Whether private hearing aids are better than NHS hearing aids can be subjective and depends on your individual preferences and circumstances.

However, where NHS hearing aids are free they are typically a one-size-fits-all solution with a lower technical specification, which doesn’t work for everyone. For example, whilst they may be suitable for one-on-one listening environments, they generally don’t perform as well in noisy group settings. If you’re an individual with an active or particularly social lifestyle, they may not provide the hearing clarity you need.

Beyond the technology available, it’s understandable that some individuals can be apprehensive about wearing hearing aids due to the stigma that may be attached to them. This is where private hearing aids can be a far superior option as designs are much more sleek, modern and discreet or completely invisible where required.

Whilst it’s crucial not to overlook the benefits that the NHS provides, it’s equally as important to take your preferences into account. Ultimately, a hearing aid is something that you’ll need to wear day in and day out, so being completely comfortable with the device and ensuring that it serves your hearing needs is essential.

Private hearing services vs NHS

There are clear differences between the hearing aids offered by the NHS and private audiologists, but what about the services that come with them?

Since hearing aids are a lifelong commitment, it’s important to take into account the standard of service you’ll receive and the availability of support when you require it. Let’s compare the difference between the hearing services within the NHS and those offered by private audiologists.

NHS hearing services

  • Limited appointment times: Due to high demand and the unfortunate lack of resources within the NHS, appointments are usually constrained to a certain time. This means that appointments can be rushed, and patients may not receive an in-depth, thorough hearing assessment.
  • Standardised care: NHS audiology services operate with a standardised framework to provide consistent care to everyone, meaning that hearing services aren’t tailored to each individual’s specific needs.
  • Basic aftercare: This will typically cover routine maintenance and repairs of NHS-provided hearing aids, but aftercare will be more generalised in comparison to private clinics.

Private audiology services

  • Comprehensive assessments: Appointment times aren’t limited and assessments aren’t rushed, meaning private audiologists can conduct thorough, in-depth consultations. They take the time to provide an accurate diagnosis whilst also understanding an individual’s challenges, lifestyle and preferences. At Harley Street Hearing a typical hearing consultation is 90 minutes.
  • Personalised attention: Private audiologists prioritise personalised services, offering individualised advice and support to each patient in order to deliver tailored solutions.
  • Appointment availability: Hearing consultations at a private clinic are more readily available without lengthy waiting times, and are typically more flexible to accommodate busy schedules, often available within 24 hours.
  • Ongoing aftercare: Private clinics prioritise aftercare to ensure their patients maximise the benefits of their hearing aids and can promptly address any concerns or challenges that may arise in the future.

All of the above are important considerations when choosing a hearing aid provider. Your hearing abilities and needs can change over time, so your hearing aid will need adjustments or upgrades to cater to your changing needs.

private audiology services

Private hearing aids in London

At Harley Street Hearing, we believe that treating hearing loss is far more than simply prescribing a hearing aid. Your hearing journey is all about the entire patient experience, from your initial consultation to your ongoing support and aftercare.

All of our hearing aid patients are patients for life. We offer unrivalled aftercare with complimentary annual check-ups and ear wax removal, to ensure that our patients get the most out of their hearing aids with the support they need from our team of highly trained clinical audiologists.

Whether you think you’re experiencing hearing loss and need a hearing aid, or you’re an existing hearing aid user looking for an upgrade, or requiring a repair, get in touch with us. We have various hearing clinics in London and a team of experts ready to listen to your concerns and provide you with the treatment you deserve.

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Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme: 8 Years Strong

musicians' hearing health scheme

Noise-induced hearing loss through music is prevalent, as highlighted by this recent article on famous musicians with hearing loss.

The Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme aims to support and educate musicians nationwide, safeguarding their hearing health. Founded by Musicians’ Hearing Services, in collaboration with Help Musicians UK (HMUK), the Musicians’ Union (MU), and the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM), it’s committed to making a difference in the lives of musicians everywhere.

It’s been eight years since the launch of the scheme, and so I thought now was a good time to reflect on some of the remarkable work we’ve done so far.

musicians' hearing health scheme

What we’ve achieved so far

In just eight years, the scheme has helped over 18,500 musicians across the UK, from guitarists and drummers to DJs and singers.

Here’s an insight into what the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme offers:

Comprehensive hearing assessments tailored specifically for musicians

Conducted by our expert audiologists at Harley Street Hearing and Musicians Hearing Services, these assessments are designed to detect early signs of hearing damage and provide personalised recommendations for protection and preservation.

Heavily subsidised hearing protection

The scheme is committed to ensuring that cost isn’t a barrier to safeguarding the hearing of musicians, recognising the financial restraints they may face. Through our partnership with industry-leading manufacturers, we offer top-quality earplugs and custom-made ear moulds at accessible rates, empowering musicians to protect their most precious asset: their hearing.

Education & raising awareness

Education lies at the core of our initiative. We are dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of noise-induced hearing loss and empowering musicians with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their hearing health. Workshops, seminars, and online resources serve as invaluable tools in this endeavour, equipping musicians with practical strategies for mitigating risk and promoting long-term auditory wellness.

musicians hearing health scheme

The importance of the scheme

The dangers of excessive noise exposure have been highlighted in recent news articles where renowned musicians such as Dave Grohl have shared their battles with hearing loss and tinnitus, serving as a reminder that no musicians are exempt from poor hearing health.

Reflecting on our achievements so far, we find inspiration in the profound impact of the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme. Behind the statistics, we have helped to safeguard the careers of countless numbers of musicians, preserving their passions and securing their futures. We couldn’t have done this without the unwavering dedication of our team and the support of our partners.

Thank you for your support

Our journey continues, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to championing the hearing health of musicians nationwide. Together, we can ensure that future generations of musicians continue to share their gifts with the world, unencumbered by the looming threat of hearing loss.

In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude to all those who have contributed to the success of the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme. Your support, dedication, and advocacy are the driving forces behind our mission, and it is through our collective efforts we will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of musicians everywhere.

Matthew Allsop, Harley Street Hearing and Musicians’ Hearing Services

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Introducing Hearsay #12: Our Newsletter for Cutting-Edge Hearing Technology and More

hearsay newsletter 12

Welcome to the latest edition of Hearsay, your gateway to the latest advancements in hearing technology and insightful articles. At Harley Street Hearing, we’re dedicated to keeping all of our hearing aid patients informed on news on everything to do with hearing and our hearing clinics. In this edition, we have an array of exciting updates and resources tailored just for you. Including:

  • State-of-the-Art Hearing Technology
  • Rail User Discounts
  • Our very own Theatre Hearing Guide
  • Testimonial from Musician Alison Beck – sharing her hearing journey to overcome the taboo of hearing loss in the music industry.
  • Hearing Health Seminars – discover how our seminars and workshops can empower you and your team with valuable knowledge on protecting and managing sound levels and promoting hearing health in your organisation.

To see the full issue click below

Don’t hesitate to contact us, we’ll be delighted to discuss any issues with you.

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National Youth Orchestra: Empowering Young Musicians

National Youth Orchestra Hearing Health Seminar

Empowering Young Musicians: A Journey through Hearing Health

Harley Street Hearing and Musicians’ Hearing Services were approached by the National Youth Orchestra for a Hearing Health Seminar. Led by Clinical Lead Fiona Butterworth the seminar took place during the NYO’s Spring residency at Uppingham School in Rutland, ahead of their much-anticipated performance at the Royal Festival Hall.

In a room filled with approximately 150 young musicians, aged between 13 and 18, Butterworth engaged the audience in a discussion that shed light on the nuances of hearing health. The atmosphere buzzed with curiosity as the musicians eagerly absorbed insights into hearing protection and dispelled common misconceptions.

Quotes from members of the NYO reflect the impact of the session:

  • “It was really interesting to hear about the different possibilities for hearing protection and some misconceptions about why hearing is damaged.”
  • “It was really useful and clarified information, and also made me feel reassured that it’s okay to reach out for help, so thank you.”
  • “It was extremely helpful! I feel I have been a bit careless when it comes to hearing protection, and considering the likelihood of me continuing music, it is useful to know more about how I can protect my hearing in the long term! Many thanks for the talk!”
  • “It really makes you think more about how we hear and how to maintain the quality of hearing when it’s something that we often take for granted, especially as musicians.”
  • “Protect your ears so you can keep doing what you love!”
  • “Hearing protection is an important part of life as a musician, and is not something that should be glossed over.”
  • “This was a great session!!! Very informative and clear, and showed me different things that I never realised about hearing or knew a little about, but now understand much better!”

NYO logo

Confidence levels regarding managing hearing health revealed a significant shift due to the contents of the seminar. At the beginning of the session, the average response to the question “how confident do you feel about managing your hearing health” was 2.8 out of 5, with 70% of responses ranging from 1 to 3 out of 5. By the end, the average response soared to 4.3 out of 5, with an overwhelming 96% of responses falling within the 4 to 5 out of 5 range.

This transformative experience underscores the importance of education and awareness in safeguarding the hearing health of young musicians. By equipping them with knowledge and resources, we empower them to cherish their passion for music while prioritising their well-being. As the NYO members attest, it’s not just about protecting our ears—it’s about preserving the harmony of our musical journey for years to come. If your organisation would be interested in learning more about our Hearing Health Seminars don’t hesitate to contact us.

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A Journey into Audiology and Music

Tom Speight Neighbourhood Voices Islington Assembly Halls

Unlocking the Harmony of Sound: A Journey into Audiology and Music

In a bustling corner of London’s Hampstead Garden Suburb, lies the Henrietta Barnett School, a hub of academic excellence and creative exploration. Recently, the school’s Spring edition of the HBS Music magazine featured an interview with Fiona Butterworth, Clinical Lead at Harley Street Hearing and Musicians’ Hearing Services, whose career embodies the intersection of music and healthcare.

HBS music department

A Harmonious Fusion of Passions

The journey into a specialised field often begins with a confluence of passions and interests. For Fiona, it all started with a love for music and a fascination with acoustics. “Initially, I studied Acoustics with Music at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research“. The allure of blending her bassoon studies with the intricacies of Acoustical Engineering proved irresistible.

However, it was the realisation that her true passion lay in understanding how we interact with sound that steered Fiona towards the path of audiology. This led to the pursuit of a master’s degree in audiology, marking the beginning of a fulfilling career dedicated to the science of hearing.

Navigating the Soundscape: A Day in the Life of an Audiologist

What exactly does a Clinical Lead in London’s leading independent hearing clinic do? As Fiona explains, the role is multifaceted and deeply enriching. Much of her time is spent in clinic settings, empathetically delving into the unique hearing difficulties experienced by her patients. From advising on suitable hearing aids and hearing protection, to providing ongoing support, audiologists play a pivotal role in empowering individuals to navigate the complex auditory landscape with confidence.

However, it’s not just about individual care. Fiona finds immense fulfilment in engaging with organisations and companies, advocating for the importance of good hearing health. Whether delivering presentations to professional London orchestras or speaking at conferences, the mission is clear: to raise awareness and educate on the significance of utilising hearing protection in all musical environments.

Neighbourhood Voices backing Tom Speight at Islington Assembly Halls

Neighbourhood Voices backing Tom Speight at Islington Assembly Halls

A Symphony of Personal Pursuits

Amidst the professional endeavours, Fiona remains deeply connected to her musical roots. Despite the demands of her career, she still enjoys playing the bassoon, particularly relishing the orchestral music they become immersed in. Yet, it’s her involvement with Sing All Together Beckenham, a vibrant community choir, that truly captures the essence of Fiona’s passion for music. Fiona performed at a gig with Neighbourhood Voices, backing Tom Speight during his UK tour stop at Islington Assembly Halls (fifth left of the above image). Within this harmonious collective, she finds camaraderie, inspiration, and the sheer joy of making music together.

Closing Notes

As the interview draws to a close, it’s evident that for this dedicated audiologist, the journey is far from over. With each note played and each patient helped, Fiona continues to bridge the gap between music and healthcare, fostering a world where the symphony of sound is accessible to all.

See Fiona’s interview here.

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The importance of getting hearing aids fitted by a professional

Hearing aid fitting on a patient

For millions of people around the globe suffering from hearing loss, hearing aids are a lifeline. The incredible advancements in technology allow users to access sounds that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to hear and help them regain their confidence.

However, as we’ve mentioned many times before, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to hearing aids. Not only does the device chosen need to be suited to the individual’s hearing needs, but its effectiveness hinges greatly on proper fitting.

Getting a hearing aid fitted by a professional audiologist means that the settings can be tailored to your specific needs and with so many features available these days, these subtle tweaks can make a huge difference.

Hearing aid fitting on a patient (1)

The importance of getting hearing aids fitted by Hearing Care Professionals was highlighted in a recent article by Audiology Worldnews discussing the implementation of AI in hearing aids. The article emphasises how AI can’t be relied on alone, and input from HCPs is crucial to ensuring that hearing aids continue to serve the individual needs of the user with correct fitting and adjustments.

A Harley Street Hearing patient, Mark Wilson, shared his thoughts in the article:

“I have Phonak Paradise, and my son, Lumity. We both use the AI but it’s taken a bit of tweaking by the hearing God that is Matthew Allsop to get it right. Sometimes the Noise Reduction can be a bit too aggressive. You can tweak it but it’s tough. Matthew is very good at subtle tweaks. Things like detecting and adjusting for car, etc.” 

Click here to read the full article.

The importance of professional hearing aid fittings can’t be overstated, so if you’re looking for support on your journey to hearing better again, get in touch with Harley Street Hearing’s team of clinical audiologists.

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