For the Shift Network’s 2023 Sound Summit (7/10-7/14), I presented AI, Music and Sound. Below are cogent points from my assessment of this controversial field.
Key Takeaways
• AI, like everything else on this planet, can be used for positive or negative purposes.
• I’m most interested in the positive applications and contributions of AI in relationship to therapeutic music and sound.
• AI has become so topical, even though it dates back to the 1950’s, because of unanticipated advancements, that now moves AI from search engines on steroids, to thinking computers.
• The major concerns of unregulated AI is non-detectable fake media, large volume job loss, AI adaptations by totalitarian governments for population control and suppression, and militarization (robotics with nano technologies run by AI machines).
• The major benefits of AI is a bigger and smarter brain than ever possible to help solve the many problems facing our planet.
Practical Applications
Practical applications of AI in the fields of therapeutic music and sound revolve around verification and enhanced bio-feedback:
• Access to huge databases: Soundwork theorists will be able to prove/disprove/improve varied conceptualizations. This will allow for rapid growth in certain areas, and the dropping of ineffective beliefs and methodologies that this field has operated under for decades.
• For soundwork composers and producers: Through AI-enhanced biofeedback (AI algorithms can analyze individual preferences, physiological responses, and other relevant data), personalized soundtracks can be created for multiple conditions.
• Emotional analysis: AI can analyze the emotional content of music and sound to create playlists or compositions that align with specific therapeutic goals. This can be accomplished in a matter of seconds.
• For soundwork practitioners: Real-time feedback can analyze physiological signals such as heart rate, skin conductance, or brain activity to provide real-time feedback during sound healing sessions. This allows the practitioner to apply soundwork methodologies in response to real time data from the client.
• Intelligent instruments: AI algorithms can be integrated into musical instruments or sound healing devices to enhance their capabilities. This is a field of specialization that is further in the future than the use of enhanced bio-feedback as mentioned above.
• Biometric sensors: Devices can monitor physiological signals like heart rate or stress levels, which can then be used to influence or adapt the music or sound output in real-time. Biometric sensors are already available on Smart watches and other devices. AI will complete the process thru immediate data analyzation.
Assessment in Time
AI is currently evolving at an exponential pace. The above comments represent a snapshot of what may be possible (now or in near future). There may be many other applications–or complications– that arise due to evolving technology, governmental regulation, corporate design, etc. Stay tuned!
1. ChatGPT was "consulted" in the creation of the list of Practical Applications.
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