Jacobs to Host ‘AlgoRhythms’ Conference Focused on AI in the Music Industry
AlgoRhythms Conference: Exploring AI’s Role in Music
The Jacobs School of Music is set to hold its second annual “AlgoRhythms: The World of Music and AI” conference on Friday and Saturday, with support from partners like the Maurer School of Law and IU Innovates. This event is a significant opportunity for students and professionals to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and music.
Purpose of the Conference
The conference aims to delve into the application of artificial intelligence in the music industry, serving as a case study that could lead to insights applicable to various fields. One of the primary goals is to inspire curiosity and innovation among attendees, encouraging them to think about the broader implications of AI in artistry.
Highlights of the Conference
Alain Barker, one of the conference organizers and the director of the Jacobs Office of Entrepreneurship and Career Development, emphasizes the evolving capabilities of AI in music creation. He mentioned, "There are a lot of apps that people are creating in which you can emulate music." For instance, the AI tool Suno allows users to input prompts and generates songs based on that input. Barker believes there are many deeper questions related to the future of artistry in light of these advancements.
Conference Organization
Isaac Smith, a Jacobs graduate student and OECD special projects manager, has played a key role in organizing the music programming and performances for the conference. Additionally, Robert Meitus, an adjunct professor and a specialist in music law, will address the legal implications of AI in music, including copyright issues and related concerns.
Smith shared that the scale of this year’s conference has expanded significantly, both in terms of offerings and interest. He noted, “Everyone has to wear a lot of hats,” indicating the collaborative effort required to pull off such an event.
Schedule of Events
The conference kicks off on Friday, with various events happening simultaneously at IU Innovates and the law school. Attendees can expect different panels and discussions at these venues. Specifically, the schedule includes:
- Musical Performances: From 3 PM to 5 PM at IU Innovates.
- Networking Opportunities: Available from 8:15 AM to 9 AM at the law school.
On Saturday, the conference will host four panels throughout the day at Sweeney Hall, interspersed with meal breaks and additional presentations. The event will culminate in a showcase performance by the IU Indianapolis DISEnsemble at 5 PM, taking place at the Musical Arts Center. A reception will follow at 7 PM at Meitus Strohm LLP, located at 121 E. Kirkwood Ave., Suite 300.
The Significance of AI in Music
As technological advancements continue to redefine artistic creation, this conference serves as an essential platform to discuss the implications of AI in music. Participants will engage in meaningful conversations about the transformation of traditional music creation methods and consider the future landscape of artistic expression in the digital age.
With the rise of AI tools, musicians, composers, and industry professionals are compelled to rethink their roles and the essence of creativity itself. The discussions at the conference will not only address current practices but also explore potential future scenarios in which AI plays an integral role in the music process.
Through events like these, Jacobs School of Music is at the forefront of the dialogue regarding the intersection of technology, creativity, and the evolving nature of art in society.
