It is an honour to host this meeting in Vienna, where cochlear implantation since Kurt Burian and the Hochmair´s in 1977 has a long tradition. The conference venue is located in the old imperial Hofburg palace, in the historic heart of Vienna, the imperial city of music and conferences.
 
In 2006 the city celebrates Wolfgang Amade Mozarts 250th birthday. The Sound of music will be a special topic in the conference, as well as all scientific aspects of basic sciences, genetics, latest progress of implant technology, surgical modifications, educational and bilateral outcomes. At the conference date Vienna is EU capital, offering a wide range of outstanding cultural and political events.
 
This 9th International Conference on Cochlear Implants includes the former International Symposium on Electronic Implants in Otology and Conventional Hearing Aids and the so called Consensus Meeting on Auditory Implants. So the future name of this only original International Conference on Cochlear Implants founded 1987 in Düren by Paul Banfai is International Conference on Cochlear Implants and Related Sciences, to include all aspects of basic sciences and hearing genetics, from now on!
 
Bringing together well known international experts and participants for scientific discussion in a vibrating and stimulating environment will give us an unforgettable experience.
Last but not least, high end social events focusing the highlights of Austrian tradition and history, as Belvedere Castle (Klimt & Schiele Paintings), the Spanish Horse riding school (Lipizzaner), the Albertina Museum and the historic town hall of Vienna will complete a splendid time for all participants and their company.
 
I wish you a successful and prosperous conference. Have a very nice time in Vienna
 
Sincerely Yours
Univ. Prof. Dr. Wolf-Dieter Baumgartner