He’s got an ear for music. And an eye for … well, an eye. Meet the singing optometrist, Tiaan Massyn – who’s all about vision, voice, and making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Owning and managing two successful practices in Pretoria’s Rooihuiskraal and Eldoraigne, Tiaan Massyn is your go-to eye care specialist by day, and an aspiring singer-songwriter by night. While his passions might fall on opposite sides of the spectrum, it may very well be his love for people that connect the two.
“I really enjoy the relationships I am able to build with my patients in my practice. It is so fulfilling to see how I can improve someone’s quality of life by providing them with the best vision possible. Music, on the other hand, just brings people together in such a beautiful way.”
Although he enjoys his day job, testing up to 16 pairs of eyes per day can be a challenging feat. But lucky for this optom, the pleasures of song writing and music making easily balance the stresses of everyday life. Let’s just say there’s nothing a glass of wine and a good music sesh can’t fix!
Tiaan has always known that he wants to work in optometry. But the desire to pursue a career in music only came more recently. A newbie in the industry, he admits that “I am completely out of my comfort zone, but am determined to broaden my horizons”.
And so, with some guidance and determination, Tiaan released his debut single, ‘Die son kom op’ (The sun rises) earlier this year. The tune, which he co-wrote with his brother-in-law, Ernes Smith, is certain to send chills down your spine!
“It is a song of hope to help carry someone through a difficult situation. A song to motivate and encourage listeners not to give up. To always believe there’s something good and that the sun will rise again tomorrow.”
As if that’s not enough, and living by the words “the magic of life happens on the other side of fear”, Tiaan decided to enter Mr South Africa 2023. He’s been thinking about it for some years, but only now feels that he is in a place where he can fulfil the role with passion and zeal.
“I believe it to be an incredible platform where I will be able to make a big difference and carry out the charity projects I have been working on over the past few years, but on a much larger scale.”
As for his musical endeavours, Tiaan is thrilled to reveal that his next single is in the works. As with his debut song, he hopes this alternative pop single will unite listeners and spread a message of hope.
“I would love to become a renowned name in the music industry and just be able to make music as much as possible. We are here for a good time, not a long time. We should make the most of it!”
One thing is certain. It’s never too late to chase your dreams! And, with a clear vision, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
Details: Follow @Tiaan Massyn Musiek on Facebook, @tiaan_massyn on Insta and @tiaanmassyn on TikTok
Tiaan gives us a quick peek into the life of a singing optom.
What is it about optometry that intrigues you?
The eyes are one of the most amazing sensory organs and it just absolutely fascinates me. Good vision is also one of the most precious gifts one can have and sadly something not everyone is fortunate enough to experience.
What’s your fave part about being an optom?
I can’t imagine a life without seeing and experiencing the beauty of it. In my opinion, optometrists play one of the most important roles when it comes to quality of life. Everyone should have optimal vision, and I truly enjoy giving it to my patients.
Three qualities any good optom should have?
First and foremost, they have to be passionate about what they do. Secondly, they have to have patience. An optom sees a lot of patients every day and each of them requires an individualised approach and treatment plan. And lastly, perseverance. No matter what difficulties an optometrist might face, they should always strive to deliver a good service for their patients.
What sparked your decision to take up singing?
I actually started taking singing lessons during the Covid lockdown. I think it was a time when all of us did a lot of self-reflecting. We had so much time on our hands to think about the chances we did not take in life and the regret we would have to face one day when we’re looking back at our lives. I decided to take action and chase my dreams.
What inspires you when it comes to music?
In a nutshell – nature, people and personal experiences. And, as most artists know – if you want to make good music, just have your heart broken.
Anyone you look up to in the industry?
Herman Kleinhans. I absolutely love his music and the way he writes. He is also such a nice and down-to-earth person.
How do you spend your free time?
I grab my guitar and a glass of wine and just play my heart out. I am also a bit of a fitness junky, so when I’m not testing eyes or singing, you’ll probably find me in the gym.
5 Tips for digital eyestrain
- Get yourself a good pair of prescription blue blocker lenses.
- Take frequent breaks (don’t take a break and be on your phone, relax your eyes and focus on a distant object).
- Make sure there is adequate light in the room. Don’t sit with a very bright cellphone or computer screen in a dark room.
- Get yourself eye drops to help prevent dry eyes due to staring at a screen.
- Use the night function available with the most recent digital technology.
7 Warning signs of eye problems you shouldn’t ignore
- Eyestrain/ eye fatigue can cause extreme discomfort and headaches.
- Seeing flashes of light. This can be a sign of a possible retinal detachment.
- Poor night vision. This can possibly be due to cataract formation.
- Teary, burning or itchy eyes. This can be a result of chronic dry eye syndrome.
- Glaring or flaring of lights at night. This can be the result of uncorrected astigmatism (where the shape of the eye might be more rugby-ball-like).
- Losing central vision. It can be a sign of macular degeneration.
- Losing peripheral vision. This can be a sign of Glaucoma where the pressures in your eye might be elevated or due to optic nerve damage.
Compiled by: ALANICKA LOTRIET. • Image: MELISSA MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY
