Hearing Awareness Social Profile | Gemma's reflection

Sunday reflection and rejuvenation of hearing health

A Sunday morning can be one of the most peaceful times of the week, and listening to beautiful vibrant music while enjoying the sounds of the birds chirping outside can make it even more serene. What a picture-perfect setting!

But what if our hearing health has diminished, and our ability to appreciate this picture perfect scene is lost? It’s something Gemma Phillips, cellist for the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, is acutely aware of, not just for her own hearing health at work, but also in support and awareness for her colleagues and audiences.

She says, “my hearing is so important to me, not only for my job, but for my life.” “It is critical to my profession but also the joy that being able to listen to music gives me and I’m so grateful to have good hearing health. It’s why I have regular health checks, including an annual hearing test. It’s great to see there is an increased awareness in hearing health in our industry and some real advancements in how people are looking after their hearing.”

Music has a profound effect on our mood and can transport us to a different place, while the chirping of birds can evoke feelings of tranquillity and harmony with nature. Together, they can create a perfect ambiance for relaxation, reflection, and rejuvenation. The beauty of music lies in its ability to communicate emotions and thoughts without words. The right melody, harmony, and rhythm can transport us to another time or place, invoke memories, or simply evoke a feeling of peace and contentment. Whether it is classical music, jazz, or even pop songs, each genre has its unique characteristics that can stimulate different emotions. Meanwhile, the sound of birds chirping can be an instant mood-lifter. It's a sign that nature is alive and thriving, and it can evoke a sense of calmness and serenity. Listening to birds can also provide a sense of connection to nature, even if you are inside. It's a reminder that we are part of something much bigger and more profound than our everyday lives.

Just like our overall health and wellbeing is important, our hearing health can be the difference between a lively, active day or a complicated one. It’s about finding the right solution to suit your lifestyle – and the options these days are limitless. For their own peace of mind, many who work in loud environments book their own periodical hearing tests.

The ASO works with Can:Do Hearing to provide regular hearing assessments and, where required, hearing protection for its musicians