Effects of training on timbre recognition and appraisal by postlingually deafened cochlear implant recipients.

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of structured training on recognition and appraisal of the timbre (tone quality) of musical instruments by postlingually deafened cochlear implant recipients. Twenty-four implant users (Nucleus CI24M) were randomly assigned to a control or a training group. The control group experienced only incidental exposure to music in their usual daily routine.