Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

9-2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A.

Program

Liberal Studies

Advisor

Lev Manovich

Subject Categories

Digital Humanities | Science and Technology Studies

Keywords

music technology, computer music, music generation, sts, deep learning, machine learning

Abstract

Recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI) technology have led to industrial attempts at applying AI to music making, namely AI music. In the context of the history of music technology, AI music raises the prospect of a new phase that extends digital technology’s role as central mode of music production. The computer has become an essential metamedium in contemporary cultural production, leading in the field of music to the digitization of tools and content and the digitalization of social institutions and relationships. This technological change had the dual effect of decentralizing music production while reinforcing capitalist logic in it. The rise of AI foreshadows an intensification of this dual technological potential, as projects like Google Magenta that offer new affordances demonstrate.

Share

COinS