While no cochlear implant can replicate the natural hearing of music

by adults and children with cochlear implants, there are strategies

that can enhance music enjoyment. Music may not sound the same

to a late deafened adult but music can nonetheless be a positive

experience and a regular part of one’s life—just as it was before a

recipient’s hearing declined.

Children who receive cochlear implants do not have the same

preconceived notions (as adults) about how music should sound and

they often do enjoy music right from the start. There are strategies

that can help improve a child’s perception. Incorporating music into

auditory therapy has demonstrated its role in enhancing speech

perception and language learning as well as adding enjoyment to

children’s lives.

 This workshop is for adults and teens with cochlear implants,

parents of younger children, and other family members. It moves

beyond a past focus on the poor pitch perception capabilities

of cochlear implant users and instead emphasizes the positive,

especially strategies and practice tools that can enhance the

music experience for those with “electric ears.”

 A new and unique rehabilitation tool created by musician and song writer Richard

Reed—a cochlear implant recipient—will be reviewed and discussed.

Richard will be one of the workshop trainers providing details on

his own odyssey back to music and how he utilized his experiences

to develop HOPE Notes. Attendees at this free workshop will

have the opportunity to view and interact with the HOPE Notes

rehabilitation resource which includes a DVD, CD, and user guide.

Light refreshments will be served.