Music and technology have always had a close, collaborative relationship. From Thomas Edison’s invention of the phonograph to synthesizers to today’s vast library of music learning software, the rapid advancement of technology has changed how music is created and taught, pushing music production and education into new, innovative, exciting territories.
In 2024, the rise of online music learning platforms, upcoming AR and VR technologies and AI software are providing musicians and music educators with exciting, cutting-edge tools which can be utilised into music classes and instrument learning. These pieces of software can support composition and music creation, promote personalised, tailored learning and diversify the classroom experience. While a lack of confidence and training may make music educators hesitant to utilise new technologies, this article will explore how embracing digital resources and blending technology with traditional teaching methods will prove beneficial for both students and teachers.
Accessibility
The democratisation of music learning enables access to high-quality lessons, removing barriers such as location, the availability of music lessons and financial expense. Online apps and learning platforms such as Yousician and Perfect Ear provide aspiring learners with a low-cost, flexible way of beginning and honing their musical abilities which accommodates the needs and requirements of the individual. This allows learners to work at their own pace and provides the option to learn music from home, giving them more independence and control over how they learn and creating a work-life balance which suits them as individuals.
For charities and social enterprises providing music programmes, the implementation of apps and online software could further aid inclusion and participation including those from vulnerable backgrounds and with disabilities and additional needs. This will ensure everyone has the opportunity and means to access projects and connect with positive role models.
Creative Collaborations
Virtual learning provides students with the opportunity to work with fellow musicians from around the globe. Aspiring musicians can develop their skills from acclaimed industry experts using websites such as Coursera to access exclusive, online modules. These virtual courses allow users to pursue their musical interests and deepen their understanding of specialist areas without needing to travel. Video conferencing software such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams facilitates the delivery of remote music lessons where students and teachers can collaborate and work together regardless of location, offering students a wider option of music teachers to choose from who can suit their needs best. Connecting with fellow musicians from across the world online helps to build connections, form friendships and music communities which would otherwise be impossible to make. This creates spaces where you can share work and collaborate on compositions, encouraging a musician’s creativity to reach new levels of experimentation and innovation.
Music Production Experience
Free music production software and digital audio workstations such as GarageBand and SoundTrap ensures everyone has equal opportunity to develop vital production skills, removing the need for aspiring musicians to visit a studio to make professional standards of music. Students can learn how to navigate digital audio workstations with a simplified design and interface, growing their confidence and understanding of the core features of music production. Users of the platforms can create songs, record and edit vocals and instruments, mix tracks and add effects and loops. The wide range of features available allow aspiring artists to experiment with different styles and genres, giving them opportunities to unleash their creativity and a useful tool to discover their identity as musicians. The practical, hands-on experience that students gain from using digital audio workstations equips musicians with skills that can be transferred forward into future careers in the music industry.
Personalised Learning
Music learning platforms and apps can provide immediate, real-time feedback on musical compositions. It can give initial responses on performances, evaluating the piece’s strengths and weaknesses. Educators can use this analysis as a starting point to a more nuanced, complex conversation and feedback session. Targeted exercises the software generates helps students improve and refine their skills by focusing on the areas they need to practise more. Creating an individualised learning plan can cater to the student’s preferred learning styles and needs, accelerating their progress towards achieving their goals.
Interactivity
Technology has helped make the often-difficult task of learning instruments and creating compositions a more fun, interactive experience, opening students up to new concepts through stimulating tasks. Apps incorporating game-like characteristics such as challenge-based activities, quizzes and levels allow students to visually track their progress and incentivises them to continue to pursue their musical ambitions. Difficult concepts in music theory and sight-reading can be broken down into manageable, digestible steps, applying knowledge and reinforcing understanding while retaining interest and engagement.
Educators may be cautious about the rising gamification of music learning, uncertain if music games are an effective, worthwhile resource. If its use is monitored and is employed as a supplement to other teaching methods, gamified apps can be a valuable additional tool which can consolidate basic concepts already taught in classroom and tutorial set ups.
Emerging VR and AR technologies are offering students and teachers new, engaging experiences that allow musicians to be transported into immersive virtual environments. Using VR, students can visit a music studio, attend concerts and conduct an orchestra while AR simulations can overlay digital information and support over the top of real-world instruments. Experiences facilitated by VR and AR lets students participate in simulated, real-life scenarios, enhancing their learning and helping them gain authentic, realistic experiences that they would not otherwise be able to access. While VR and AR technology is currently an expensive investment and not widely available in private and educational settings, it is a rapidly growing and exciting market with untapped potential.
A Human Touch
As technology becomes a more and more important aspect of music education, questions are arising of whether such tools can be an effective substitute for a real-life teacher and in-person, face to face lessons. The value of the interpersonal, emotional bond between a teacher and a student is undeniable. Educators appreciate their students’ needs within a wider understanding of their personal context and are aware of how their pupils work best. They know when to motivate and challenge them, when to pause, reflect and recap. This builds a level of communication and mutual understanding which technology can struggle to replicate.
The debate on the pros and cons between real-life musical mentors and online resources should be less focused on looking at them as opposition and should instead foster an attitude of co-operation and collaboration. Making use of methods and teaching tools from both strands of music education and taking advantage of the range of resources available will aid the creation of an enhanced, supportive and inclusive learning environment.
AI- A Step Too Far?
Since the launch of Chat GPT in November 2022, the rise in artificial intelligence and its role in daily life has been a contentious, controversial issue, its critics viewing its development with scepticism and unease. Within the music industry, concerns have been raised regarding the risk AI poses to employment and human creativity. In April 2024, high profile artists such as Billie Eilish and Nicki Minaj were among musicians who called for protection against the predatory use of AI music making tools.
The issue of artificial intelligence-generated music continues to dominate the music industry following the copyright infringement lawsuit cases against the AI start-up company Udio. Udio, which created the Drake diss track BBL Drizzy Boomin, was sued by the Recording Industry Association of America who claimed its sound recordings were used to train AI systems to produce music without their consent.
AI music platforms have already infiltrated the mainstream market with websites such as Soundraw allowing users to compose music rapidly using of AI-powered tools. Other generators like AIVA can convert written text into a personalised song. The development and roll out of AI composition tools could be a useful resource for students, acting as a creative soundboard and exposing them to new sounds and genres. To prevent an over-reliance on AI technology, students and educators will require thorough training on how to use AI responsibly as an assistive tool aiding the creative process. Real-world cases of copyright infringement and damaging legal battles demonstrate the need for young artists to be educated on the importance of ethical, transparent AI-aided music production to safeguard their future in the music industry.
Conclusion
The integration of music technology tools and software into educational settings is transforming the delivery of music provision for students and educators alike. Students can access enriching, interactive resources which will broaden their creative thinking and assist in building a solid foundation of musical knowledge. Educators have a wide range of innovative, pioneering materials at their disposal which can be used to support and supplement their teaching strategies. For organisations such as True Cadence, the use of AI and assistive technology can help manage administrative tasks and reduce costs, redirecting resources and time into supporting the artistic and emotional development of young people.
Traditional obstacles to accessing music education are slowly being eradicated, meaning educators and music learning is reaching previously unengaged audiences. Whether you are a musical amateur who wants to learn more, a musician with clearly defined ambitions or a teacher wanting to explore new educational possibilities, there is music technology which can meet your needs.
