Gigging with hearing aids

[Toril S]

Hello musical friends.
I have very recently started using hearing aids, and today was my first time using them while playing for an audience. I was very nervous, but all turned out well. Hearing loss is different for every person, so I cannot answer for others, but to me this was a positive experience.
1. I heard myself playing a lot better, and with much more clarity.
2. I heard clearly what people said when they came up to me to talk!
3. I heard what the people at the nearest tables were saying, and picked up some positive comments about my music

As I had to turn down the volume of my PA system, I asked people about the loudness, and they were satisfied. It was still loud enough for them.

There is a little minus point; harmonica and accordion voices get some unwanted overtones, but I guess this can be adjusted. I haven't got all the listening programs for the HAs yet.

So, all in all I am at peace. Hearing loss is no good thing when you are visually impaired like me, but I intend to make the best out of it all, there is no other choice.

[BogdanH]

hi Toril,
Thank you for sharing you positive experience by using hearing aid. Even I don't need it for now, it's good to know that there is a solution, so those who do need it can enjoy (playing) music.
Btw. I do wear eyeglasses and so I imagine it's similar to eyesight: one just doesn't know how bad eyesight (s)he has.. until (s)he puts eyeglasses on for the first time .. and what at difference that makes 

Bogdan