In a remarkable display of the intersection between technology and classical art, celebrated soprano Sumi Jo graced the stage at Innovate Korea 2024, blending her iconic voice with the capabilities of artificial intelligence.
A Duet Across Realms
Sumi Jo’s performance at the Lyu Keun-chul Sports Complex was nothing short of historic. Her rendition of “Dome Epais (The Flower Song)” from Leo Delibes’ opera Lakme was accompanied not by a human counterpart, but an AI-generated voice modeled after her own. This duet symbolized a groundbreaking moment where human artistry and machine precision harmonized to create a new form of expression.
In another piece, the AI pianist “VirtuosoNet” took the stage, showcasing its ability to not only play from sheet music but also to adapt to the singer’s tempo and style. The audience witnessed a seamless integration of human emotion and artificial intelligence, as the AI responded to Jo’s dynamic performance in real-time.
The Human-Centric Approach to Innovation
During the event, Sumi Jo emphasized the importance of a human-centered approach to technological development. She advocated for the use of science and technology to enhance human emotions and creativity, rather than overshadow them. Her words resonated with the audience, as they reflected on the potential of AI to contribute to a more beautiful and abundant world.
The performance was a testament to the ongoing research at the Sumi Jo Performing Arts Research Center at KAIST. Under the leadership of associate professor Nam Ju-han, the center explores the fusion of AI with performance arts, focusing on virtual performer modeling and the interaction between virtual and human performers.
Pioneering the Future of Artistic Collaboration
Sumi Jo’s collaboration with AI at Innovate Korea 2024 was a continuation of her efforts to integrate technology into the arts. The event highlighted the potential for AI to become a valuable partner in artistic endeavors, opening doors to new forms of creativity and expression.
The Sumi Jo Performing Arts Research Center stands at the forefront of this movement, pushing the boundaries of what is possible when art meets technology. With each performance, they are crafting a future where AI not only understands but also enhances the human experience of art.