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Yesterday, I was very honored to be invited by the MIT Media Lab to present our recent work: Mustango, together with Jan Melechovsky. Huge thanks to Jan for dialing in at 5am Singapore time! We talked about what motivated us to start this project. Firstly, we wanted to create a #text2music generative system by leveraging ONLY public datasets. We believe this will democratize access to the music generation systems and foster innovation in this research field. Secondly, as musicians ourselves, we envision music generation systems to be more controllable, particularly regarding music-specific guidelines such as chord progressions, keys, tempo, etc. We also had some fruitful discussions with the audience about how to leverage music domain knowledge into the generative systems and possible control interfaces for music generation. Personally, I think using natural language to control music generation systems might not be the optimal choice. Hopefully, more research will further explore and address this issue. Thank you very much for the invitation, Lancelot Blanchard! Looking forward to more future collaborations:)

I was awarded the Rector Award for Scientific Innovation 2024. The award (given to ~1% of Bar-Ilan University researchers each year), was given to me for a series of studies I have led regarding the Importance of Music-Collecting in the Streaming Age. Over 500 million people listen to music using streaming applications such as Spotify. These applications allow their users to collect music (e.g. by ‘liking’ it). However, the use of algorithms eliminates the need to collect music. *Or so it seems.* A series of studies I have led indicated that streaming application users collect only 10% of the songs they had collected using previous technologies. However, when encouraged to collect more songs, their listening enjoyment increased significantly and substantially. The papers also suggest streaming application designs that encourage music-collecting.

🎵 Exciting News! 🚀 We have just released a preliminary 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐣𝐚𝐧 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞! Join us in Salzburg on March 7 for an inspiring journey into the future of music and technology. 👉 Explore the Program: www.karajanmusictech.com Check out some highlight panels: ① 'Creativity, Neuroscience and AI: Exploring the intersection of human and artificial intelligence': Explore the evolving concept of creativity in the age of AI, examining it through #neuroscience, art, and technology lenses. We aim to delve into the intersections of these fields to better understand creativity and its role in driving artistic innovation. Speakers: Lena Nieper (University of Bayreuth), Maximos Kaliakatsos-Papakostas (AI in Music, Hellenic Mediterranean University) and Arne Dietrich (Chair of Department of Psychology, American University of Beirut) ② 'Innovation, Technology and Digitalization in TV Programming for the Performing Arts' in collaboration with IMZ International Music + Media Centre: How is tech reshaping TV and digital media, particularly in the performing arts? Discussions will highlight differences and similarities between traditional TV and digital platforms, focusing on content creation, distribution, and engagement, and how these changes impact the future of broadcasting in the performing arts. Speakers: Max Beckham-Ortner (Secretary General, IMZ International Music + Media Centre), Robert Zimmermann (Deutsche Grammophon) and Frank Gerdes (Head of Cultural Department, ServusTV) and Laetitia Huberti (Board Member, IMZ) ③ 'Entrepreneurship, Technology and Music': This panel focuses on the crucial mix of entrepreneurial thinking, tech innovation, and musical talent in shaping the future of music. It highlights the need for artists to embrace entrepreneurship and use technology creatively and commercially. The discussion aims to provide insights and strategies for musicians to succeed entrepreneurially. Speakers: Anna Zò (Music Tech Europe), Antoine Leboyer (TUM Venture Labs), Kathleen Alder (WildKat PR) and Matthias Strobel (Founder, MusicTech Germany) ④ 'Harmonizing Workplace, Orchestrating Success: The Interplay of Music and Technology in Enhancing Workplace Well-Being': Get an insightful blend of neuroscience, music, and business strategy. Learn how music and technology enhance workplace health, creativity, and well-being through engaging presentations and panels. Discover music and tech's vital role in creating successful, vibrant professional spaces. Speakers: Valerie Brunner (Managing Board, Raiffeisen Bank International AG), Walter Werzowa (Music Producer & Founder of HealthTunes.org) and Ivan Rektor (CEITEC - Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University Brno) Don't miss this chance to be part of this group of visionaries and decision-makers in Music and Tech! #KMT24 #karajan #MusicTech #VWGroupCulture #GenerativeAI #MusicAI #MusicHealth #Entrepreneurship

Hi everyone, As part of of my final year dissertation, I am conducting research around sustainability within live music events. The aim of this research is to get attendees perspectives of sustainable initiatives that have been put in place for live music events, and explore if these initiatives encourage attendees to act in a more sustainable manner. If you had a spare few minutes, I would really appreciate if you could take part in this questionnaire: https://lnkd.in/ejG6fXcK

In the era of intense competition, the call to "say goodbye to involution and go global" has become a hot topic. But when we talk about "going global," what exactly are we sending out into the world? Is it products, people, or culture? Each of these aspects holds unique significance and potential. Products are often the first thing that comes to mind. In the global marketplace, a well - crafted and innovative product can break through boundaries and gain international recognition. High - quality products that meet the diverse needs and preferences of consumers around the world have the power to create a global brand. For example, Apple's iPhones and iPads have become ubiquitous symbols of modern technology, captivating users from different countries and cultures. These products not only showcase advanced technology but also incorporate user - friendly designs and aesthetic appeal. By focusing on product quality, functionality, and design, companies can export their products and establish a strong foothold in foreign markets. This allows for the expansion of business and the sharing of technological achievements on a global scale. People also play a crucial role in the process of going global. Talented individuals with international perspectives and cross - cultural communication skills are in high demand. Entrepreneurs, professionals, and experts who are willing to venture into new territories bring with them not only their knowledge and skills but also their ability to build connections and understand different market dynamics. International students, for instance, study in foreign countries and then bring back new ideas and experiences to their home countries, contributing to the cross - fertilization of cultures and the development of global networks. Moreover, expatriates working in different parts of the world help to transfer knowledge and best practices, facilitating the integration of different cultures and promoting international cooperation. Their presence helps to bridge the gap between different cultures and promotes mutual understanding. Culture, on the other hand, is the intangible yet powerful aspect of going global. Every country and region has its own unique cultural heritage, which includes art, music, literature, and values. By promoting cultural exchanges, we can showcase the beauty and diversity of our own cultures and at the same time learn from others. Cultural exports such as Hollywood movies, Japanese anime, and Korean pop music have had a profound impact on the global stage, influencing the lifestyles and values of people around the world. Cultural festivals, exhibitions, and performances provide platforms for cultural dialogue and mutual appreciation. Through cultural exchanges, we can break down cultural barriers and build a more inclusive and harmonious world. This helps to create a global community that respects and values the differences among cultures. ＃TOC

Get to know the Metavenues people! The Metavenues project (SPOT Groningen, Komodal and ECHO) is exploring the possibilities and opportunities the metaverse presents for music and art venues. Its activities and the EU Commission funding are currently at their midpoint, and we took the opportunity to touch base with Geert-Jan B., the project leader for SPOT Groningen:   Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your professional path, and your role at SPOT Groningen? I studied piano and conducting at the conservatory and have been with SPOT Groningen since 2004. Over the years, I’ve combined my work at SPOT with my passion for music, working as a conductor and a teacher at the conservatory. I’ve also spent time in the professional choral world, conducting renowned choirs like the Groot Omroepkoor and the Nederlands Kamerkoor. Currently, I work at SPOT as a Classical Music Programmer and Project Leader. How did the idea for the Metavenues project arise within the context of SPOT Groningen? As we planned for our new building, expected to be ready in about eight years, we started thinking about what such a facility should offer. This includes furniture, design, technology, and importantly, new digital innovations. We want to be future-ready and explore how we can remain relevant with the rapid advancement of digital technologies. That’s why we decided to draft a research proposal and work on this with two European partners, Komodal and the European Concert Hall Organisation. What are your expectations regarding the outcomes of the Metavenues project? I expect one of the outcomes to be the creation of a platform for knowledge, networking, and learning—a sort of learning community or knowledge center. The initial results show there’s a lack of knowledge, funding, expertise, and collaboration. A platform like this could unite all parties (audience, venues, and artists), increasing our collective impact. Another outcome I foresee is a prototype that enhances our venue’s digital presence, particularly in the Metaverse. The challenge will be to develop a viable business plan for it. After Metavenues 1, we’ll need to continue with a follow-up project that provides more financial resources to test and develop these ideas further. How has the project impacted your institution so far? We’ve become much more aware of how rapidly digital technology is developing and how unprepared we’ve been until now. This will impact our role, our organization, and much more.

And now for something a little different: "Music, maestro..." Ever thought about what #ethical #innovation means in the field of #music #technology? Well, this guest editor team has, and is at the cutting edge of this emerging #interdisciplinary research field. IEEE TTS is proud to bring you a Special Issue #CFP on "Ethical Innovation with/in Music Technology" guest edited by Luca Turchet (Università di Trento), Nick Bryan-Kinns (University of the Arts London), Fabio Morreale (The University of Auckland), James Brusseau (Pace University), and Pamela Burnard (University of Cambridge). Intent: to identify the main considerations around the ethical and responsible development of future music technologies. We target ethical innovation in music technology as well as with music technology. We aim at defining a promising road-map to account for these considerations while maintaining the objective of pushing the boundaries of musical hardware, software and socio-technical ecosystems, thus merging musical innovation with the understanding of its impact on society. https://lnkd.in/g6SX654v ➡ Conceptualization of #trustworthy #musical #ecosystems for digital societies ➡ #TrustworthyAI, #ResponsibleAI and #ExplainableAI for musical #applications ➡ Ethics for the #Musical #Metaverse, Internet of Musical Things, Music Information Retrieval, and New Interfaces for Musical Expression ➡ #Environmental #sustainability issues and solutions for the music industry ➡ Dilemmas of #creativity and autonomy in music technology ➡ #Inclusivity and accessibility in music technology ➡ The plurality of ethics (#cultural, #legal, #social and #political) issues related to innovative music technologies ➡ Trustworthy musical #data ecosystem #architectures, #interfaces, methodologies, #orchestration, #patterns, solutions, and technology #platforms ➡ Impact of trustworthy musical ecosystems on digital societies at the local, national and global levels ➡ Socio-economic #fairness and ethical response-abilities in the music industry ➡ The restoration of #ancient #instruments in a modern digital context and the preservation of related #cultural #histories ➡ The benefits and risks of using an AI musical #tutor: fast-tracking tools for learning an instrument and means of #production ➡ New responsible tools and techniques for teaching and learning music in higher education ➡ Repositioning ourselves as researchers who perform ethical response-ability Michael E. Ibrahim Joseph Carvalko Naxos Music Group Jason Sargent George Roussos Kathleen Vogel Constance de Saint Laurent Jordan Richard Schoenherr, PhD Lindsay Robertson Bozenna Pasik-Duncan Dr Greg Adamson 💡 Rebecca Herold Rys Farthing Asif Gill Andrew Whelan Ebrahim Bagheri Ketra Schmitt Karina V. Vlad Glaveanu Iwona Fluda 💡🧠 💭 🩷🪄 Creativity, FRSA Lucy Batley Dr Genevieve Smith-Nunes Portia Ungley Greg Barnett Dr Penny Hay Keri Facer Cynthia Selin John C. Havens Garth Paine

News❗We are organizing a special issue on "Ethical Innovation with/in Music Technology" for the IEEE Transactions on Technology and Society. ➡ Guest editors: Luca Turchet, Nick Bryan-Kinns, Fabio Morreale, James Brusseau, and Pamela Burnard. ➡ All details in the attached call for papers and in the post from the journal Editor in Chief Katina Michael below. #ieee #musictechnology #society #musicalmetaverse #internetofmusicalthings #musicrecommendersystems #musicinformationretrieval

🚀 Introducing OnstageAI's Ambassador: Maestro Jaap van Zweden 🎉 Dear Partners, Empowering artists and cultural institutions is at the core of OnstageAI’s mission and to realize it, strong partnership with institutions and visionary artists is essential. 📣 It is therefore with a true honour and immense excitement to announce one of the world’s leading conductors and visionary artists Maestro Jaap Van Zweden as OnstageAI's Music Ambassador. "When I first learned about OnstageAI, I was convinced it will become something big. Technology is always advancing, and I believe OnstageAI’s vision of bringing the power of Artificial Intelligence to our sector can spread music to broader audiences, empower musicians, and even inspire creative new performance formats and practices. It is a game-changer." - Jaap van Zweden Maestro Jaap van Zweden's support is not only an endorsement of the OnstageAI work, but our commitment to leverage Artificial Intelligence to benefit musicians and audiences alike. As we strive to revolutionize live music video production, Maestro Jaap van Zweden's support serves as artistic vision on shaping the future of music. Stay tuned for more updates, including  exciting collaborations featuring Maestro Jaap van Zweden and OnstageAI technology! Interested in collaboration? Let's connect - reach out today! 🤝 📩 #OnstageAI #Ambassador #Innovation #MusicIndustry #ArtificialIntelligence #Empowerment #GameChanger #AIforMUSIC

🎶🌐 **A Symphonic Future: The Intersection of Music and Technology** In a world where the only constant is change, the initiative to invite students to explore the junction of music, computing, and technology is not just timely—it's essential. The fusion of these fields could very well redefine industries and create unprecedented opportunities for aspiring innovators. **Why Music and Tech?** - Music has always been a universal language, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. - Technology stands as our current lingua franca in global communication and innovation. Their merger promises a revolutionary journey of discovery and creation. **Opportunities Await:** - 🎸 Musicians can leverage artificial intelligence to compose or enhance melodies. - 🖥️ Technologists might explore virtual reality to craft immersive audio experiences. - 🎤 Creatives will find new methods to connect audiences more intimately with technology-driven performances. As we stand on the brink of the Fourth Industrial Revolution—fueled by the convergence of digital, biological, and physical innovations—redefining the creative landscape through proactive educational programs is a beacon of progress. **What's In It for Students?** - Greater inter-disciplinarity fosters versatile skillsets. - Enhanced career prospects in fields like multimedia production, tech development, and innovative artistic platforms. - Exposure to cutting-edge research and networks, laying the foundation for lifelong learning and adaptation. Moreover, this integration aligns with emerging workforce demands where adaptable skills and creativity are increasingly sought-after in the marketplace. Prediction often lies at the heart of progress, and predicting where this confluence could lead is both daunting and exhilarating. Imagine a future: - Where concerts merge holograms with reality. - Where your AI can curate personal playlists tailored to your daily mood. - Where students are the pioneers actively sculpting what 'music' will mean tomorrow. **The Challenge & the Reward:** The challenge for educators and administrators is clear: foster an environment that encourages exploration and experimentation without borders. But the reward—watching