AI a hot topic at California music tech show

At a recent music trade show organized by the National Association of Music Merchants, new music technology that uses artificial intelligence (AI) was previewed with a mixed response from visitors. AI has been used to enhance some instruments and design others. Musicians also are using the programs to help produce and mix their recordings. While some embrace the technology, others fear AI could be used to produce complete musical works and replace composers, lyricists, musicians, and singers.

Class discussion: As computers grow ever more powerful and artificial intelligence programs grow more sophisticated, could creative artists in music, literature, film, and visual art find themselves replaced? Can you tell the difference between art, music, film, and writing created by humans and material generated by AI? Since the first drawings on a cave wall, technology has continually changed how people create art. Will it be different with AI? Do you value art and music for what it says about being human? Can AI do that by itself?