“I Thought It Would Go Away. It Didn’t. Now I’m returning to live music after 7 years!”
Musician Tim Bricheno on tinnitus, music, and finding a way back.
I’ve spent all my adult life immersed in British alternative music; as part of All About Eve, The Sisters of Mercy, The Mission. Music has been the constant presence in my life, something I’ve listened to, lived through and depended on every day.
Seven years ago, I walked into a rehearsal room to help a young band. They were excited. They were loud. I remember thinking, “this is really loud”, but I’d played countless noisy gigs before. I’d had ringing ears many times previously after gigs or rehearsals, but the ringing always went away by morning.
This time, it didn’t.
I felt very alone. That’s when I found Tinnitus UK.
Through their helpline, forums, and support groups, I finally found people who understood. Through Tinnitus UK, I was guided towards the right specialists. Seeing an audiologist and tinnitus specialist psychologist was a turning point. For the first time, someone helped me understand that tinnitus isn’t just an ear problem, it’s a brain and nervous system problem.
For seven years, I avoided live music entirely. With the right support, I slowly rebuilt my relationship with sound. Carefully. Thoughtfully. Safely.
This year, for the first time in seven years, I’m going to a live music event again.
Your gift can make a difference
People like me don’t just need reassurance. We need real, human support.
Your donation helps Tinnitus UK provide:
- A free, confidential helpline for people in crisis
- Local and online support groups, so no one has to face tinnitus alone
- Training and research for audiologists and professionals
- Trusted information and guidance, when the waiting lists are long and answers are scarce
Anything you can give, today, makes a difference.
Please donate to the Tinnitus UK appeal today