What does informal learning look like with AI? by Steve Jackman

We recently launched our first Level 3 certification at the Big Gig Bangkok. As part of this we've started to ask the question:

"What does informal learning look like with AI?"

Behind the scenes we've been experimenting and tinkering lots, starting with songwriting, exploring what it means for learners in our classrooms to have access to AI for music making. Elements like writing great lyrics, generating chord progressions, working with AI session players in Logic Pro, creating AI-generated vocals, stem splitting, AI-powered mixing, mastering...the list is long and growing daily.

At the heart of Musical Futures

At the heart of the Musical Futures approach is research based on how popular musicians learn, and usually that's not formally in school but the real informal learning that was transformative for them in becoming successful musicians. This research was conducted in the late 90s early 2000s back when we’d get kids to bring CDs and Cassettes into class. Since then things have changed a lot, and so has the way popular musicians learn.

At Musical Futures International, we’ve always been future-focused. Our approach to Electronic Music Pedagogy is shaped by cutting-edge research into how electronic and digital music producers learn. We’ve explored the parallels between the informal, collaborative learning typical of rock bands and popular musicians - centred around shared rehearsal spaces and group dynamics - and the more individual, experimental journey of electronic musicians. These artists often learn by tinkering alone, sharing ideas in online communities like Discord and Reddit, and by engaging with tutorials and livestreams on platforms like YouTube.

Now we're looking to the future again

We're now exploring how AI and machine learning are set to continue developing the way musicians learn. Just as samplers, drum machines, and DAWs expanded musical possibilities over decades, AI now offers new creative pathways for exploration. At Musical Futures, we're focused on practical integration.

- How are artists using AI in their creative process?

- How do we keep student voice and choice central while bringing in these powerful tools? 

- How do we ensure students develop critical skills alongside technological fluency?

We approach AI as another musical tool requiring the same experiential learning process. This goes perfectly with our Informal Learning approach, which gives students agency over their own musical journey. We're not replacing human creativity – we're enhancing it with tools that expand what's possible.

We've been looking at songwriting as a starting point. Our new songwriting resources (available in the Full Access Subscription) connect directly with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, providing authentic contexts for creative expression. Whether writing about clean oceans, sustainable cities, or community health, students can now amplify their message with AI tools.

This isn't about replacing creativity – it's about enhancing it. A student who struggles with vocal performance can now hear their composition brought to life through AI vocals. Another who finds chord progressions challenging can experiment with AI-suggested patterns before making them their own.

Our AI Strategy document (PDF 215KB) will give you a full overview of how we are approaching AI...for now!

Our AI tools in development

We're excited about several AI-driven tools that we’ve developed:

Looking Forward

This evolution represents a natural extension of the Musical Futures approach. Today's musicians increasingly collaborate with AI, engage in online communities, and create multimodally – combining audio, visual, and interactive elements.

We recognise AI remains in an ongoing beta phase rather than a finished product. While keyboards took centuries to refine, AI's evolution is occurring at unprecedented speed. Rather than seeing this as a limitation, we approach AI as a collaborative tool in its early stages, where educators and students can actively explore and lead its application in music education.

Our Level 3 Musical Futures Certification invites educators to explore these possibilities with us. Together, we're determining what music education looks like in an age where the boundaries between human and AI-powered creativity are increasingly fluid.

Learn more about how you can get your Level 3 certification here.