Patterns Over Time: The Endless Evolution of Human–Machine Musical Creativity

How have humans and technology shaped music together across the centuries? In this engaging and accessible talk, composer, guitarist and music technologist Milton Mermikides explores remarkable moments in the history of musical innovation, from ninth-century programmable automata in Baghdad and the earliest sound recordings to the Telharmonium, player pianos, the theremin and the first electronic sequencing in popular music.

Participants can follow the creative journey to today's AI-driven and digital musical possibilities. Through fascinating stories, historical demonstrations and musical examples, Milton reveals how each technological breakthrough transformed the way we create, perform and experience music.

This event offers fresh insights into the relationship between creativity and technology, inviting audiences to reflect on how the past continues to shape the musical culture—and the musical futures—of tomorrow.

This event is part of Being Human Festival, the UK’s national festival of the humanities, taking place 5-14 November 2026. Led by the School of Advanced Study, University of London, in partnership with the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the British Academy. 

For further information, please see beinghumanfestival.org

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