FLOATS & STRINGS explores the role of artificial intelligence as a virtual extra member within a music ensemble. AI responds in real-time to the performance, generating scores at a speed beyond human capability. While AI takes on the role of composer and arranger, the performance itself remains entirely human. This opens up new perspectives on creativity, improvisation, and collaboration between humans and machines.
Together with B-Classic, PXL-Music research, musicians Dago Sondervan and Andrew Claes, coder Kasper Jordaens, and the string ensemble Bryggen, we investigate how AI can function as an assistant, a source of inspiration, or even a co-author in the creative process. Classical musicians are challenged to interpret AI-generated scores a prima vista, demanding exceptional technical mastery and flexibility.
How can AI become a virtual orchestra member? How does technology influence interplay, spontaneity, and expression? FLOATS & STRINGS is a research project, an experiment, and an artistic statement about the future of music. This project is part of the ‘Innovative Partner Projects’ of the Department of Culture, Youth & Media of Flanders and is made possible with their support.