top of page
Search

ARTICLE - AI In Film Music - Should Composers Embrace It or Fear It?

Updated: Aug 8

An Ever-Changing World: The Impact of AI on Film Music


Exploring the Intersection of Technology and Human Expression in Music



The Benefits of AI in Film Music


In today's world, music is a vital form of human expression. As technology advances, we must ask ourselves: can artificial intelligence replace human input in creating original and emotive music?


This article explores the uses of AI and assesses its potential impact on film music in the future.


AI music offers numerous advantages to the film and TV industries. One of the most significant benefits is cost reduction. Independent filmmakers often work with limited budgets. AI provides access to professional-sounding music at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods.


AI can follow scenes and blend genres effectively. It produces scores based on inputs from directors and producers, similar to a traditional composer, but in less time and at a lower cost. Companies like Netflix are experimenting with AI music for documentaries, while indie filmmakers are reaping the rewards in projects like Zone Out.


Despite these advantages, skepticism remains. Why are some people hesitant about these advancements?


The Essence of Human Emotion in Music


For those who love music, one crucial aspect cannot be ignored: emotion. When was the last time a piece of music resonated with you? When did it connect you to the characters and the story? Many believe this emotional connection is the greatest challenge AI faces. Can AI ever evoke the same level of expression as human composers?


To communicate emotions through music, one must first experience those emotions. Many composers and singer-songwriters admit their best work emerges from intense emotional periods, whether positive or negative. In contrast, AI can only analyze and reconstruct existing music. Humans possess the creativity to generate new ideas from scratch.


There is a significant difference between blending two existing genres and creating an entirely new genre from pure compositional knowledge, human expression, and creativity. A composer’s deep understanding of musical sounds enables them to experiment with unusual combinations in unexpected scenes. This often results in some of the most iconic scores, such as the minimalist design of the Jaws soundtrack, which was initially intended to be an epic score by John Williams.


The human experience, in all its messy and chaotic glory is the driving force behind all art.

Imitation vs. Innovation in AI Music


Most AI music is generated using sound libraries, which are now industry standards. However, without a composer, taking a score to a live recording becomes challenging. A composer’s guidance is essential during the recording process. They inform the conductor, sound technicians, and performers on how each phrase should sound, down to minute details like dynamics and articulations.


Another consideration is the legalities surrounding ownership of AI-generated music. As AI remains a relatively new phenomenon, laws and regulations are slow to adapt. This creates gray areas regarding who owns the music produced by AI.


The rise of AI raises profound philosophical and ethical questions around the nature of ownership and authorship when it comes to music creation.

Currently, there is no clear information on whether the prompt creator, the programmer, or the AI itself holds legal ownership of the music. This ambiguity can lead to complications, especially when trying to sell the music after production. In the future, ownership issues may create complex legal challenges for those who do not hold the rights or royalties to profit from the music.


The rise of AI music will likely impact emerging composers more than established ones. In the indie world, young composers may find it increasingly difficult to secure projects for their portfolios. To navigate this landscape, creativity is essential. Students should seek involvement in student productions, which offer excellent opportunities for collaboration on film projects to produce quality music.


Beyond student circles, building a strong network will become increasingly important. Engaging in discussions and forming relationships with filmmakers will encourage them to collaborate with you instead of relying on AI. Use the insights from this article to demonstrate that your work surpasses anything AI can produce. Trust in your ability to craft sounds that evoke emotions and memories in listeners.


In an increasingly technological world, human connection is more valuable than ever.

The Future of Music Creation


As we look ahead, the future of music creation will likely be shaped by the ongoing dialogue between technology and human artistry. The integration of AI into music production can enhance creativity, but it should not replace the human touch that makes music truly special.


Conclusion


At the end of the day, music and entertainment have existed long before many modern conveniences. Music is an integral part of human expression and communication that will persist, even without an audience. For composers, the rise of AI can feel like being sidelined by the very technology they once used to create their first digital scores.


AI will undoubtedly challenge the music industry. It will take years of regulations, testing, and experimentation before we fully understand AI's influence. However, we must continue to champion quality music that remains human, expressive, and communicative. By collaborating with live ensembles, filmmakers, and corporations, we can find a harmonious balance where composers and AI coexist.


We are confident that soon, there will be a movement to celebrate the remarkable abilities of traditional composition while pushing back against the encroaching AI landscape.


During the writing of this article, we experimented with AI music to explore its capabilities. Here are some of the prompts and examples we produced:


Prompt - compose an orchestral piece, make it epic.


Prompt - Orchestral, Cinematic, Epic, Dramatic, Energetic


Prompt - Orchestral, Cinematic, Epic, Dramatic, Nostalgic





bottom of page