Signed Items from Dave Matthews, Coldplay and Others to be Auctioned at Audiology Benefit

One-of-a-kind signed guitars and other unique music memorabilia from Dave Matthews, Coldplay, and other artists will be available for bidding during Auction 4 Audiology, a benefit fundraiser of the American Academy of Audiology Foundation (AAAF). Proceeds from the sale of these musical items support a cause that's especially relevant to the music industry: musicians' hearing health. The Auction 4 Audiology will be open for online bidding from March 28-April 9.

Among the items music fans can click and bid on are Fender electric guitars signed by ,b>Jewel, Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead, O.A.R., REO and Styx; and Steve Winwood, plus a growing assortment of other autographed items. The collection is highlighted by three particularly rare pieces: a framed Coldplay gold record, signed by the band; a Zildjian cymbal signed by the Dave Matthews Band; and a one-of-a-kind Martin acoustic guitar with hand-drawn artwork by Dave Matthews. Matthews, whose artwork graces the cover of the band's latest studio album, Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King, is a big believer in hearing conservation. The chance to own a piece of his original art on a beautiful Martin guitar is a phenomenal opportunity. These one-of-a-kind items can be viewed online at the URL listed below.

This exclusive cache of memorabilia was collected and donated by AAAF board member and doctor of audiology, Michael Santucci, president and founder of Sensaphonics, makers of custom in-ear monitors for hundreds of top touring musicians and a company dedicated to the preservation of hearing.

"These items all come from artists who understand the importance of hearing health," Santucci states. "Once they became aware of the cause, they were happy to sign an item for us. We are excited to have their support in advancing the state of research into musicians' hearing."

Musicians know that one of their most valuable instruments is their hearing; just ask any rocker who experiences serious hearing loss due to long term high decibel exposure.