Can AI really compose music? Discover how it works and try it yourself

We’re all likely pretty familiar with artificial intelligence’s (AI) ability to create amazingly lifelike images and conversational text that mimics human language. However, a little less talked about is its ability to make music. Can it really compose like a musician, and how can I give it a try? Keep reading to find out!

Understanding how AI generates music

AI creates music by relying on algorithms that it learns from a vast library of songs in a system very similar to how it learns how to write and create images. Through machine learning, AI identifies patterns, harmonies, and rhythms that it can then reproduce or combine in new ways. This approach means AI doesn’t “compose” in the traditional sense but rather uses a model trained on thousands of songs to build something resembling music.

While some AI-generated tracks can sound innovative, critics argue that AI lacks the emotional depth a human composer brings. However, supporters believe that AI offers an entirely new way of creating and experiencing music.

How AI in music creation works: Key technologies and methods

Machine Learning Models: Tools like OpenAI’s MuseNet use deep learning networks to analyze song structures, helping AI predict how sounds should flow.

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs): This technique pits two networks against each other to refine and improve outputs, leading to more sophisticated music that mimics complex melodies and harmonies.

AI explained: What artificial intelligence is and how it can work for you

Pros and cons of AI music creation

Pros

• AI allows anyone, even non-musicians, to generate music quickly, reducing the time and expertise needed for music creation. This ability is great for improving websites and social media posts.

• AI can combine diverse musical elements and styles that might not occur naturally to a human composer, leading to unique, experimental sounds.

• AI music platforms can tailor compositions to specific moods, tempos, and themes, making it easy to produce customized music for various needs, like films, video games, and commercials.

• AI can help musicians by suggesting new ideas, filling in harmonies, or creating backing tracks, acting as a collaborative tool rather than a replacement.

• AI-generated music can be a low-cost alternative for those needing background or mood music without hiring composers or buying rights to popular songs.

Cons

• AI lacks true human emotion, often leading to music that may sound technically correct but feels empty or fails to resonate emotionally with listeners.

• Since AI learns from existing music, it sometimes recreates elements too closely, raising concerns about originality and potential copyright infringement.

• AI can struggle with truly groundbreaking innovation, as it relies on patterns from past music.

• As AI becomes more common in music production, it may reduce demand for composers, especially for commercial and background music needs.

• Debates around the ethical implications of AI-created music raise questions about who owns and deserves credit for these compositions – the user, the programmer, or the AI?

Can you try it yourself? Get started with AI music creation

If you’re interested in exploring AI-generated music, try platforms like Amper Music, AI Music, or AIVA (Artificial Intelligence Virtual Artist). These tools enable users to select genres, instruments, and tempos, generating unique compositions. Platforms like AIVA even let you refine your music, offering a taste of music creation without needing extensive music knowledge. You can start creating for free.

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