Sintonia Studio – Sai Jonnalagadda

This project is a research investigation of the effectiveness of employing holistic, non-medical methods, and particularly “Deep Listening” and musical exercises, on the reversal of sensorineural hearing loss, for the purposes of developing a therapeutic hearing rejuvenation program.
An estimated 12 million Canadians suffer from hearing loss, and over 360 million people world-wide. Hearing loss costs to the Canadian economy can amount to tens of billions of dollars each year. The overwhelmingly most common treatment for hearing loss is hearing aid technology, and secondarily cochlear implants, but at a significant and sometimes prohibitive cost, while not always adequately restoring hearing. While some recent and limited research suggests that musical training and lifestyle changes have a positive impact on hearing loss, holistic and natural methods have been understudied by the medical and scientific communities. Furthermore, new methods that hone hearing and listening, such as the “Deep Listening” practice developed by composer Pauline Oliveros and administered by the Center for Deep Listening at Rensselaer, have not been studied in the context of affecting hearing loss.
The main goal of Sintonia Studio is to conduct market research to understand the market landscape of existing solutions for hearing loss, identify gaps and potential market opportunity for a holistic, non-medical solution for hearing loss. The market research data will help inform and develop an initial business strategy for Sintonia Studio.

Faculty Supervisor:

Martin Halek

Student:

Partner:

Sintonia Studio

Discipline:

Business

Sector:

Information and cultural industries

University:

University of Calgary

Program: