Considerations and Concerns of Professional Game Composers Regarding Artificially Intelligent Music Technology

Abstract

Artificially intelligent music technology (AIMT) is a promising field with great potential for creating innovation in music. However, the considerations and concerns surrounding AIgenerated music from the perspective of professional video game composers have yet to be fully explored. In this study, 11 professional video game composers were interviewed to determine how they feel about AIMT and how this informs future research and tool design within the games industry. The interviews were analyzed using a reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) to identify key themes. The study found that while composers recognize the benefits of music AI, they have complex concerns beyond the obvious concerns for AI infringing on their agency and creativity. There is an inherent clash between the creative ego and music AI, which can make it difficult for composers to embrace this technology. Furthermore, a lack of standard technical knowledge, support, understanding, and trust of music AI is impeding tool use within the industry. These findings have implications for music AI researchers and industry practitioners. By better understanding the concerns and considerations of professional creatives, researchers can design and communicate their tools more effectively to music professionals. Moreover, this study lays the foundation for empirical research into the relationship between professional creatives and emerging AI technology -a topic that is under-emphasised in current research.