This session will explore the diverse applications and potential inherent in evolving technologies like artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality within the realm of creative practices closely tied to live music performances. Focused on the integration of generative AI in creative processes, the discussion will also delve into the artistic possibilities offered by the metaverse as an innovative ecosystem for music performances. In essence, this session will feature experts in cutting-edge technologies who are dedicated to harnessing the power of evolving technologies as catalysts for human creativity and artistic expression.

Our Moderator:

SERGIO EMILIO PARRA

Sergio Emilio Parra (he/him) is a project consultant at the Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA), and a pianist and electroacoustic composer currently based in Ottawa, Canada. He obtained his M.A. in Music & Culture: Digital Humanities, at Carleton University. His work at the CLMA includes, among other endeavours, leading the first-ever economic impact assessment of the live music industry in Canada. Parra is also artistically active: he made his Ottawa Chamberfest debut in July 2023 and has since showcased his electroacoustic works in various venues across Ottawa, including his participation in the 'Mandala Spotlight: Unveiling Mandala on Stage' event, organized by the Ottawa Arts Council. He also performs as a piano accompanist for Classical ballet dancers at The School of Dance.

Our Panelists:

ADRIENNE WONG:

Adrienne Wong is the Artistic Director of SpiderWebShow and an artist whose work straddles theatrical and digital space. Together with Michael Wheeler and Marcel Stewart she co-curates FOLDA, an annual festival of live digital art in Kingston, ON. Landline, created with Dustin Harvey, toured internationally in English and French. Me On The Map, created with JD Derbyshire, is a show about urban design and ethical decision-making. Adrienne was the inaugural artist in residence for CBC Radio's q. Adrienne is currently pursuing an MFA in Writing at the University of Victoria. Her major project explores the relationship between humans and their smartphones via participatory theatre, non-linear narratives, and handicrafts.

ANNE MCKINNON:

Anne McKinnon is CEO and co-founder of award-winning platform Ristband, using immersive and gaming technology to supercharge the music industry. Anne's team won the SXSW Audience Award in 2023 for their official hybrid (live & digital) Future x Music event.  In January 2023, Anne was recognized by IQ Magazine as one of the live industry's most visionary professionals. In 2022, she published the first Report on Diversity in Virtual Worlds. In 2021, her team received a grant from Epic Games in recognition of their work supporting emerging artists and creating new types of live gaming experiences. Anne has a unique background spanning gaming, deep tech, media and entertainment. Prior to Ristband, Anne supported emerging technology startups through growth and acquisition. She has also worked with world-class music management, agents, and labels.

BRODIE CONLEY:

Brodie Conley (he/him) is a music industries worker and artist living in Ottawa, ON. He has worked across a variety of areas including research, artist management and community music initiatives, as well as in program and policy development within government. He is currently a researcher with the Center for Music Ecosystems, where he is focused on research on the economic, social and cultural value produced through music and the music industry. In the past, Brodie was an artist manager with Kep Management, where he supported the careers of multiple Canadian artists (Andy Shauf / Lido Pimienta). He also worked as the Festival Manager for the annual MEGAPHONO Music Festival and Conference, which brought music industry professionals to Ottawa, and provided an opportunity for local and regional artists to expand their reach, cultivate new knowledge and catalyze export opportunities.

LOLA BARALDI:

Lola Baraldi is a creative project manager currently working with MUTEK to facilitate Partnerships and Digital Projects, including the production of the Immersive Collection, the festival's first Extended Reality (XR) artworks. She is the co-founder of the Montreal chapter of shesaid.so, part of a global network aiming to create opportunities for women, allies and non-binary people working in music. Lola studies Cultural Management and sits on the Montreal's Night Council, a citizen-led group of facilitators for the local night-time economy.

This project is supported by FACTOR, the Government of Canada (gouvernement du Canada), and Canada’s private radio broadcasters. This project is also supported by Ontario Creates.