Does AI Spell the End of Music or a Boost in Creativity?

AI Revolutionises Music Industry: A Look Inside the Futuristic Studios at Queen Mary University

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London are revolutionising the music industry with innovative artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The aim is to create what they term as the “new virtual worlds” of music.

A Glimpse into the Future of Music Technology

With more than 30 doctoral scholars led by Mathieu Barthet, a senior lecturer in Digital Media, these innovators are delving into the potential of computational creativity and generative AI. A term that signifies tools engineered to function at human cognition level.

In their futuristic studios, music intertwines with cutting-edge technology, heralding a new era in music production.

AI-powered Instruments Unveiled

Reporter’s recent brush with this reality showcased a virtual instrument called Netz, demonstrated by student, Max Graf. Played using an augmented-reality headset, Netz uses body movements to create musical notes and chords, blending reality with computer-enhanced content.

Another researcher, Andrea Martonelli, demonstrated HITar, a guitar equipped with AI sensors. The sensors interpret user movements to create percussive or drum-like sounds, that can’t be produced by a standard guitar.

Generative AI: A Quantum Leap in Music Production

AI has been present in music-making since the 1950s. However, recent advancements in generative AI has divided opinion among artists.

Having gained traction last year with the ChatGPT language system, Generative AI is now capable of composing new sounds, lyrics, or entire songs. Many musicians add uncomplicated AI to their repertoire.

British musician YUNGBLUD advocates AI for its potential to take his music to “another direction.” But some artists, like Amy Love of the English rock group, Nova Twins, express concerns that this technology could overstep boundaries, objecting to the use of artificial or posthumously generated artist voices in songs.

The Beatles’ last release, “Now and Then,” created with AI-recreated John Lennon’s voice, and the late French singer Edith Piaf’s voice being recreated using AI by Warner Music, have sparked discussions on the legal and ethical implications of AI use in music.

Guardrails Needed for AI Integration in Music

Mathieu Barthet acknowledges the potential place for AI in the music production process, provided it is steered appropriately and stipulations are established to ensure that musicians retain some control.

Music Makers Need to Stay Tuned

No doubt, AI brings a new tune to the music industry, raising multiple debates on legal and ethical considerations. But it’s clear that the evolving guidelines on generative AI are at an embryonic stage.

Learn how to harness the power of AI in your music-making journey at MakingMusic101.com.

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