The Grand Finale of the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) funded research project ‘Compositions for Cochlear Implantees project’ took place on 29th September 2012 at the Turner Sims Concert Hall.
Project leader Rachel van Besouw began the event with a public seminar about the challenges of engaging with music with current cochlear implant (CI) technology and preliminary findings from the multidisciplinary research project. David Nicholls then interviewed software engineer and experienced cochlear implant user, Andrew Paterson, about how music sounds through a CI.
The second half of the Grand Finale featured a range of works specifically aimed at cochlear implant users, newly composed by Benjamin Oliver and performed by a specially formed ensemble. Musical items included: a new setting of Edward Lear’s 'Calico Pie'; 'Loopy Birds' featuring guest performances from the blackbird, robin and cuckoo (among others); 'By the Sea' for beach equipment and ensemble; and audience participation piece 'Three Folk Songs with Patriotic Cheese Accompaniments'.
The event was attended by around 150 people and feedback was extremely positive ( see our concert page to find out what the audience thought )!
Both the concert and seminar were filmed for the AHRC's new digital showcase. BBC Solent Radio and BBC South News also covered the event. You can watch the BBC South report on the BBC News website.
