Music is a universal language, a source of emotion capable of transcending barriers. Yet, for people with hearing loss, access to concert halls and live performances is often fraught with obstacles. To break down these barriers, virtuous dynamics are emerging through partnerships between committed stakeholders.
Beyond the concert: the right to culture
Attending a cultural event is about more than just taking a seat in an auditorium. For someone with hearing loss, it is an opportunity to share a moment of connection, feel the vibrations of an orchestra, and immerse themselves in a unique atmosphere. Too often, the difficulty of following conversations or perceiving subtle sounds leads to involuntary social withdrawal. Accessible performances therefore provide a valuable opportunity to break this isolation and rebuild connections.
An exemplary partnership with the Menuhin Festival Gstaad
For the fourth time, we are renewing our collaboration with the Menuhin Festival Gstaad this year. This unmissable event brings the Bernese Alps to life from mid-July to early September with over 60 classical concerts and internationally renowned artists. Thanks to the generous support of an anonymous donor foundation, we are organizing two outings for people with hearing loss on August 15 and 16, with a total of over 100 tickets provided.
The strength of this initiative lies in its comprehensive approach. By offering not only free tickets but also coach transport from Lausanne and a dinner reception on-site, we eliminate logistical constraints so that participants can focus on the enjoyment of the performance and the richness of the interaction. Feedback from previous editions has been unanimous: far more than just an outing, these evenings become memories that stay with you.
Technology for inclusion
Auditory accessibility requires appropriate technological equipment. As part of this partnership, FoRom écoute is handling the installation of an induction loop in the Festival Tent. This device allows people using hearing aids equipped with a "T" setting to receive sound directly, with exceptional clarity and without interference from ambient noise.
The presence of such installations in venues is not a luxury, but a necessity. It ensures high-quality listening, allowing for the perception of the nuances of the works, from the pianissimo of a solo to the power of an orchestral tutti.
A network of committed partners
This operation in Gstaad perfectly illustrates the type of action we take. However, it is only one facet of our work. Throughout the year, we promote cultural accessibility by sharing special offers and collaborating with major institutions such as the Théâtre de Vidy, the Septembre Musical Montreux-Vevey, as well as numerous cinemas and theaters in French-speaking Switzerland.
Thanks to these partners, culture becomes a true space for meeting and sharing, even for the most prestigious events.
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🎟️ Want to join us for the Menuhin Festival Gstaad? Visit the online ticket office to check if seats are still available. A deposit is required for booking.
Photo of conductor Alexander Shelley with the Gstaad Festival Orchestra (GFO), who will perform on August 15, 2026, one of the two evenings that people supported by FoRom écoute will have the pleasure of attending. Photo provided by the Menuhin Festival Gstaad.
