AI as the creator of creative content—opportunity or risk?

Objective:

Learners critically examine the impact of generative artificial intelligence on the creative industries and develop their own well-founded position on the subject.

Content and methods:

The material provides an introduction to how generative creative content works. In a discussion, students take on different roles (e.g., politicians, tech industry, cultural workers), analyze subject-specific arguments, and compile them in a table. An optional practical task allows them to experiment with AI tools themselves.

Skills:

Critical examination of technological innovations and their social consequences
Change of perspective and ability to argue within the framework of a debate
Media literacy through reflection on copyright, authenticity, and the dangers of manipulation
Use of digital tools for creative content creation

Target group:

Grade 10 and above

51 other teachers use this template

Target group and level

Grade 10 and above

Subjects

ArtMusicPoliticsEconomics

Preview

AI as the creator of creative content—opportunity or risk?

Introduction

AI is becoming increasingly capable, and this also applies to the creative industries. Creative content is already being created with the help of AI. This presents both risks and opportunities. Discuss these below and form your own opinion.

AI-Generated Songs: The Symphony of Tomorrow

Imagine a world where a chart-topping hit emerges not from the creative mind of a seasoned musician, but from the intricate algorithms of an AI system. This isn't a futuristic fantasy; it's happening now. In 2020, AI named "Aiva" composed its first symphony, captivating audiences worldwide and showcasing the profound capabilities of artificial intelligence in music creation. These generative AI systems, capable of producing new content autonomously, are revolutionizing how we create and experience songs.

Today, tools like OpenAI's MuseNet and Google's Magenta allow musicians and hobbyists alike to craft melodies and beats using deep learning models. MuseNet, for instance, can generate 4-minute musical compositions with ten different instruments, blending styles from Bach to the Beatles. These AI systems analyze vast datasets of existing music, learning patterns and structures to create original compositions. It's like having a virtual composer that collaborates with you, offering endless possibilities for innovation.

As AI continues to evolve, future music creation could transcend traditional boundaries. Imagine personalized soundtracks tailored to individual moods or events, generated in real-time. AI might even enable interactive concerts where audiences influence the music dynamically, transforming passive listening into an immersive experience.

However, the rise of AI in music is not without controversy. While some celebrate the democratization of music production, allowing anyone to create complex compositions, others fear the erosion of human creativity and craftsmanship. Critics argue that AI-generated music lacks the emotional depth and authenticity of human-made compositions, raising questions about the role of artists in an AI-driven world.

In the coming years, your daily life could be profoundly influenced by AI-composed music, from personalized playlists to AI DJs at your favorite club. Whether this technological symphony is a harmonious advancement or a dissonant threat to the art of music remains a central debate of our time.

📝 Research the example from the text and share your first impression with your class.

📌 Now discuss together as a class whether artificial intelligence presents more opportunities or risks for creative content in our society. Take different positions on this issue. Below you will find material that will help you with the discussion.

Note for the teacher

Below, you will find material that students can use for a group discussion.

Students collect their arguments in the table. They can also note down possible counterarguments there. It may be useful to simulate a “coffee break” during the discussion, during which the individual positions can be exchanged informally, alliances formed, or the table supplemented.

📌 Here you will find information about your position. Read the text and then note down the most important information in the table to prepare for the discussion.

Committee Chair (Politics)

As the Committee Chair in politics, the primary focus is to balance technological leadership with protecting cultural creators. A significant argument in this domain is the potential of AI to democratize music production, thereby making it accessible to a broader audience. This democratization fosters innovation, exemplified by AI tools like OpenAI's MuseNet, which can generate diverse musical compositions. However, concerns exist regarding AI-generated music potentially diluting cultural heritage, as it often lacks the emotional depth tied to human creativity. The global music market, valued at $2.9 billion in 2025, underscores the economic influence AI could have on cultural sectors. Crafting policies that ensure legal certainty while safeguarding artists' rights amidst innovation is a challenge. The committee must address ethical concerns, such as the contentious use of copyrighted material for AI training. By preparing a draft decision for parliament, the chair aims to lead a debate that structures arguments and finds a balance between preserving cultural heritage and advancing technology.

Balancing technological leadership with the protection of cultural creators. Leading the debate and structuring the arguments. Preparing a draft decision for parliament.

Tech Entrepreneur / AI Developer

Tech entrepreneurs and AI developers view AI in music as a powerful tool for technical progress and market growth. AI is considered a democratizing force, allowing anyone to create music without extensive training. This shift is evidenced by platforms like Google's Magenta, which enable users to experiment with music creation. Countries not embracing AI risk falling behind in the global market, with the AI music market projected to grow at a CAGR of 27.8%, potentially reaching USD 60.4 billion by 2034. Entrepreneurs advocate for technical solutions such as watermarking to address copyright issues, ensuring creators receive recognition for their work. Despite the challenges, AI offers efficiency and cost savings, making it an attractive option for music production. The focus is on harnessing AI's potential while addressing ethical and legal concerns, ensuring the technology's benefits are realized without compromising artistic integrity.

Highlighting the potential of AI for the 'democratization of art' (everyone can be creative). Arguments for international competitiveness (those who ban AI will fall behind). Proposals for technical solutions for labeling (watermarking).

Traditional Artists / Copyright Associations

Traditional artists and copyright associations prioritize protecting intellectual property and ensuring fair compensation. They argue that AI's dependence on existing data for training poses a risk of 'data theft,' potentially infringing on copyrighted works. In 2023, Universal Music Group urged streaming services to block AI-generated music using their artists' content, highlighting the industry's concern. Artists emphasize the authenticity and 'soul' inherent in human-created art, often lacking in AI-generated music. The economic impact is significant; studies predict musicians could lose up to 24% of their revenue due to AI by 2028. Associations demand strict levies and taxes on AI-generated content to support human artistry. While AI can produce music, it cannot replicate the emotional depth and cultural significance that human creations embody, which remains a fundamental aspect of artistic expression.

Highlighting the risks of 'data theft' (training AI with protected works). Emphasizing human authenticity and 'soul' in art. Demanding strict levies/taxes on AI-generated content to promote human art.

Economic Development / Digitalization Officers

Economic development officers view AI as an opportunity to create new business models and increase tax revenue. AI music tools can drastically reduce production costs, making music creation more accessible. The global AI in music market is expected to grow significantly, reaching USD 38.7 billion by 2033. This growth presents opportunities for AI-driven content in gaming, advertising, and film sectors. New job roles like 'prompt engineering' and AI curation are emerging, driven by the need to manage AI-generated content. Officers argue that AI can enhance location attractiveness by fostering innovation hubs, despite concerns about human job displacement. Overall, AI is seen as a catalyst for economic development, creating new employment opportunities in tech and creative industries, and driving forward digitalization initiatives.

Analyzing the market potential for AI content (gaming, advertising, film). Arguments for reducing production costs through AI tools. Creating new jobs in the fields of 'prompt engineering' and AI curation.

Media Ethicists / Education Experts

Media ethicists warn against manipulation and the potential loss of trust in media due to AI advancements. AI's ability to create deepfakes and manipulate content raises significant ethical concerns about authenticity and the erosion of trust. In 2025, AI-driven manipulation was cited as a substantial risk to human decision-making processes. Ethicists advocate for comprehensive educational programs to improve AI literacy among citizens, empowering them to critically assess AI-generated content. The cultural value of mass-produced art is questioned, as AI can generate music rapidly, potentially overshadowing human creativity. Ethicists emphasize the importance of transparency and accountability in AI development to maintain public trust and ensure ethical standards are upheld in the creation of AI-driven content.

Warning against manipulation and the loss of trust in media (deepfakes). Demanding educational programs (AI literacy) for citizens. Investigating the question: What constitutes the value of culture when it is mass-produced at the touch of a button?

Consumers / Fan Representatives

Consumers and fan representatives prioritize affordable content and entertainment value. They argue that as long as the product is enjoyable, its origin is less relevant. AI enables users to become creators themselves, using tools to produce music and art, fostering a participatory culture. However, there's concern about AI producing 'cultural blandness,' as algorithms often prioritize popular styles over diversity. Consumers desire participation and interactivity, potentially influencing music dynamically in live settings. Platforms like Suno demonstrate AI's potential for user engagement, allowing users to create music quickly and easily. As AI continues to evolve, consumers remain focused on entertainment value and the opportunities for active engagement and creativity afforded by AI technologies.

Bringing in the user perspective (do we care about the origin as long as we like the product?). Concerns regarding the production of 'cultural blandness' by algorithms. Desire for participation (becoming creative themselves using AI tools).

IT and Copyright Lawyers

IT and copyright lawyers focus on ensuring legal certainty and addressing liability issues related to AI-generated content. They clarify that AI-generated works often face challenges in obtaining copyright protection, highlighted by the refusal to register AI-generated art in 2025. Lawyers advocate for new licensing models to navigate these complexities, ensuring fair compensation for creators. The compatibility of AI works with existing laws is constantly under scrutiny, with courts grappling with the implications of AI-generated content. Lawyers emphasize the need for clear definitions of authorship and ownership to navigate the evolving legal landscape and address the challenges posed by AI in copyright law, ensuring that both creators and AI developers can operate within a defined legal framework.

Clarifying the question: Who is liable for AI content? (The human giving the command or the company?). Reviewing the compatibility of AI works with existing laws. Proposals for new licensing models.

📝 Fill out the table to prepare for the discussion.

📌 You can find more information and arguments to help you prepare for the discussion at the following links. Use these if you still have time before the discussion starts.

Sources

📌 Now you are ready for the discussion.

📝 AI as the creator of creative content—risk or opportunity?

✨ Bonus task: Create your own creative content using AI.

Guide: Creating Music with AI

Introduction

This guide will help you create music using AI. Music is being revolutionized by AI, and you can compose or experiment creatively by using generative AI tools. We focus on tools that are free and easy for you to use.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Selecting the Right Tool

There are various AI programs you can use to compose music. Here are two recommended options:

MuseNet by OpenAI: A powerful tool that allows you to create music pieces in the style of different composers.
Magenta by Google: A platform focused on exploring the creativity of AI and offering new approaches to music production.

2. Accessing the Tools

MuseNet: Visit the OpenAI website and look for MuseNet. You might need a free account or can use the public demo.
Magenta: Visit the Magenta website and explore the available tools and applications. Many of the projects are open source and can be tried online directly.

3. Getting Started with MuseNet

Visit the Website: Go to the OpenAI MuseNet demo page.
Select a Style: Choose the music style and composers you are interested in.
Choose Instruments: You can select up to ten different instruments to include in your music piece.
Generate Music: Let MuseNet compose your music piece. Listen to the suggestions and choose a version you like.

4. Getting Started with Magenta

Visit the Website: Go to the Magenta website and choose a project that interests you, like Magenta Studio.
Installation: Many Magenta tools can be used directly in the web browser, or you can install them as software on your computer.
Create Music: Use the various tools to generate melodies, create beats, or transform existing music.

5. Experiment and Personalize

Experiment: Play around with different styles and instruments to find out what you like best.
Personalize: Try changing your music piece by adjusting the parameters and experimenting with new ideas.

Tips for Using AI in Music Production

Patience: Take your time to explore the different features and possibilities of the tools.
Creativity: Be open to new ideas and approaches. AI can help you go beyond traditional music styles.
Feedback: Share your creations with friends and family and get feedback to improve.
Learning: Educate yourself about how AI works in music production to better understand how to use the tools effectively.

With these steps and tips, you can start creating music with AI and embark on your own musical journey. Have fun experimenting and composing!