In an effort to support music and hearing research initiatives, the American Academy of Audiology Foundation and Sensaphonics will be auctioning off autographed guitars from the likes of Dave Matthews, Jewel, Coldplay, Bob Weir, and other artists.

One-of-a-kind signed guitars and other music memorabilia 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 will help support research on musicians’ hearing health.

The Auction 4 Audiology will be open for online bidding from March 28th to April 9th, 2011. These one-of-a-kind items (and others) can be viewed online at biddingforgood.com/auction4audiology.

The items to be auctioned include Fender electric guitars signed by Jewel, Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead, O.A.R., REO Speedwagon, Styx, and Steve Winwood. Bidders will have their eyes on three rare pieces in the auction collection: a framed Coldplay gold record signed by the band; a Zildjian cymbal signed by the Dave Matthews Band; and an exclusive Martin acoustic guitar with hand-drawn artwork by Dave Matthews. The AAAF notes that 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. DMB fans will want to check out the Dave Matthews items at the auction.

This collection of memorabilia was collected and donated by AAAF board member and doctor of audiology, Michael Santucci. Dr. Santucci is the president and founder of Sensaphonics Hearing Conservation, a company dedicated to the preservation of hearing, which makes custom in-ear monitors.

About the auction, Santucci says, "These items all come from artists who understand the importance of hearing health. 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. To support the cause, or to check out some of the items to be auctioned, visit audiologyfoundation.org.