Music and Hearing Research Project
Through previous Music4U work and consultation with Arts Development partners and music hubs across the Music4U region, it has been shown that there are limited music opportunities for children and young people who are deaf.
As part of Youth Music's Musical Inclusion programme, Music4U has undertaken a research project focused on this issue.
For the purposes of this project, the term 'deaf', as defined by the National Deaf Children's Society, refers to someone who is partially or wholly lacking hearing, either from birth or as a result of disease or trauma. The project concentrates on deaf children aged 0 to 5 years.
As part of the research, Music4U has been examining current levels of provision for young deaf children across the region - from York to Grimsby, Goole to Bridlington - and identifying examples of best practice nationally. The research seeks a better understanding of:
- how musical engagement can benefit deaf children and their families and carers;
- how deaf children can continue their enjoyment of music as they get older; and;
- the different approaches to effective music provision, including those using technology
The project also aims to propose how Music4U and its partners might effectively engage deaf children in music across the region and identify potential funding opportunities that could support future work.
The project will culminate in a formal report, which will be launched at the 'Music to Young Ears' Conference on Wednesday 8th May, during Deaf Awareness Week. Details of the conference will be announced soon.