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How AI is transforming the way we learn music

The fusion of artificial intelligence (AI) and music education is revolutionising the way we teach and learn music. AI is opening up a symphony of possibilities that are making music education more accessible, engaging, and effective than ever before. Our Mobile & Web Technology  Consultant, Liam Maguire, takes a walk down memory lane and discusses the impact of the AI evolution…

In the early 2000’s when I first started learning how to play the guitar, I only had a few simple resources to rely on. There was sheet music, but for those like Paul McCartney and myself, who are unable to read or write music, it wasn’t a captivating option. Especially for learning the riffs to ‘Smoke on the Water’ or ‘Sunshine of Your Love’. The other option was to save up your pocket money for the month and head to HMV to pick up the CD of your newest Rock ‘n’ Roll icon. However, you’d then have to listen to the same song on repeat until it became unbearable and work out the notes with trial and error.

And then along came the revolution of accessible internet. YouTube became the bread and butter for all aspiring musicians; watching tutorials and live concerts of your favourite artists with the ability to pause, rewind and replay videos over and over again. I was hooked, imagining my future and seeing my name in lights.

Liam Maguire, Technology Consultant at Formula Recruitment as a young boy (around 4 years old) wearing PJs in the living room holding a blue toy guitar with red and yellow buttons. The picture is grainy and shot on a film camera, in typical style of the time (1990's - early 2000s). True nostalgia. He has a huge smile on his face.

Fast-forward to the present day, and tools utilising AI are arguably reshaping the Music Education industry for the better, but how?

Personalised Learning

AI-powered platforms can analyse a student’s performance and tailor lessons to their individual needs. Programs like Yousician and SmartMusic use machine learning algorithms to assess a student’s skill level, identify areas for improvement, and adjust the difficulty of exercises accordingly. This personalised approach ensures that students receive the right level of challenge, which can accelerate learning and keep them motivated.

Interactive and Engaging Tools

AI is enhancing the interactivity of music education. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences, powered by AI, can immerse students in interactive environments where they can learn music theory, history, and practice performance in a fun and engaging way. Apps like MelodyVR and Google’s AR Experiments in Music allow students to explore musical concepts in a hands-on manner that traditional methods can’t match.

Composition and Creativity

AI isn’t just for learning and practicing; it’s also a powerful tool for creativity. AI-driven composition tools like AIVA and Amper Music assist students in composing their own music by suggesting harmonies, melodies, and even entire arrangements. These tools can help students understand the intricacies of music composition and inspire them to explore their creative potential.

Expanding Access to Quality Education

One of the most profound impacts of AI in music education is the ability to democratise access to high-quality instruction. Not all students have the opportunity to learn from experienced music teachers due to geographic or financial constraints. AI-powered online platforms and virtual tutors can bring world-class music education to students anywhere in the world, breaking down barriers and fostering a global community of budding musicians.

Fast forward a decade from the previous image and Liam Maguire, Mobile & Web Technology Consultant at Formula Recruitment, is about 11 in this image. It's a digital image of him sat in the bay window cove which has been turned into a sofa/bench. He's wearing black jeans, a grey shirt, black waistcoat and tie. His hair is dark and cut in a Beetles or Oasis style. He looks concentrated as he plays a gold electric guitar.

The integration of AI into music education is like adding a new instrument to an orchestra – one that enhances the entire ensemble. By providing personalised learning, real-time feedback, interactive tools, creative assistance, expanded access, and support for teachers, AI is transforming the way music is taught and learned. As technology continues to advance, the harmony between AI and music education will only grow stronger, creating a more vibrant and inclusive world of music learning.

 

Looking to expand your Dev Team? Or hoping to take the next step in your career? Get in touch with our Mobile & Web Technology Specialist, Liam Maguire by emailing liam@formularecruitment.co.uk or calling 020 3940 7464.

 

 

Written by Liam Maguire, Mobile & Web Technology Consultant.

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