Aim: Little is known about music perception of early implanted
deaf children with CIs. This study aimed to examine the effects of
a music training program on the musical and linguistic skills of
pediatric CI users.
Methods: Ten pediatric CI-users received multi-disciplinary music
training for 3 months. Their musical and linguistic skills were
tested pre- and post-training and compared to a CI and a NH
control group.
Results: The music group demonstrated higher music test scores
than CI controls and performed comparably to NH in pitch
discrimination after training. The increase of the music group’s
linguistic performance was slightly higher than controls’. Parental
feedback indicated that training stimulated everyday musical
behavior.
Conclusion: Pediatric CI users may benefit from music training
and enjoy participation in music making activities. The proposed
training offers a stimulating environment and substantial listening
practice and may support long-term musical, linguistic, and
cultural development of these children.