CreaTeME live at Arendalsuka 2024 at the 12th of August: Technology in music: Friend or Enemy?

Panel Discussion on Technology and Music at Arendalsuka 2024

Arendalsuka 2024 featured an engaging panel discussion on the evolving relationship between technology and music. Organized by CreaTeME at the University of Agder, RITMO Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies in Rhythm, Time, and Motion at the University of Oslo, and NOPA (the Norwegian Society of Composers and Lyricists), the event brought together experts from academia, the music industry, and the arts.

Technological Impact on Music

The discussion began with a look at how technology has historically influenced the music industry, from the Walkman to digital samplers. The panelists acknowledged that technological advancements have transformed music creation, distribution, and consumption, presenting both opportunities and challenges. Key concerns included the sustainability of music as a cultural and economic practice.


 

Artificial Intelligence: A Game Changer?

Artificial intelligence (AI) was a major topic, with debates on whether it signifies a fundamental shift in music technology. Daniel Nordgård, Professor at the University of Agder, noted AI’s potential to democratize music production but also warned of the risk of devaluing music as AI-generated content becomes more common. Anne Danielsen, Professor at RITMO, saw AI as a tool to enhance creativity but cautioned that excessive reliance on AI might erode the human element crucial to music’s emotional and cultural value.

Industry and Artistic Perspectives

Ole Henrik Antonsen, Chairman of NOPA, discussed the economic implications of technological changes, emphasizing the need for fair copyright protections and compensation for artists. Hanne Kolstø, artist and author, shared her mixed feelings about technology, recognizing its creative potential while lamenting the loss of traditional music-making practices.

Torun Eriksen, songwriter and artist at UiA, highlighted the importance of maintaining artistic integrity amidst technological advances, arguing that technology should complement rather than overshadow the human aspect of music.

The panel was interactive, with audience members contributing thoughtful questions and comments. The discussion underscored the need to balance technological innovation with preserving the cultural and emotional essence of music. Arendalsuka 2024 successfully facilitated a meaningful conversation on how technology and music can evolve together.

Photo by the CreaTeME team