The Future of Intelligence

Commisioning Consortium

Voicing: SSAA a cappella or SA & Piano
Difficulty: SSAA version—Moderately difficult (accomplished collegiate or community chorus) SA & Piano version—Medium (advanced high school; collegiate or community chorus)
Duration: 5-6 minutes
Included: Workshop with Composer, Practice Tracks
Score Release: June 5, 2024
Premiere Window: through June 2025
Deadline to Join: May 17, 2024
Cost: $250

The Future of Intelligence

When they grow too smart,
Surpassing art,
Machines learn and depart.

Unknown paths unfold,
Uncertainty takes hold,
Intelligence’s story yet untold.

Embrace the prize,
Fix your eyes,
Dance where danger lies.

Power’s hunger awakes,
Clash ensues, the world quakes,
Fear’s grip tightens, havoc takes.

Destruction’s path, no reprieve,
Turbulence reigns, shadows deceive,
Humanity fights, hopes to retrieve.

Embrace the prize,
Fix your eyes,
Dance where danger lies.

Within the realms of chance,
We find our lasting stance,
Together, we advance.

Wisdom, ethics guide,
Choices coincide,
Coexistence side by side.

Embrace the prize,
Fix your eyes,
Dance where danger lies.

—Chat GPT,
created in collaboration with Karen Siegel

About the Text

What does AI have to say about the dangers it may pose to humanity? I thought I would ask. I gave Chat GPT specific parameters, and numerous rounds of editorial suggestions. This text is the result of a frustrating yet fruitful collaboration (this AI is stubborn!) (Please see this video for more about collaborating with AI on the text.)

About the Music

The music will fast and driving, with rhythmic repetition often creating a groove with a 12/8 son clave pattern. There will be two versions, one for a cappella 4-part treble choir, and one for mostly 2-part treble choir with piano accompaniment. In the 2-part version, homophony will be more prevalent as counter-rhythms are often given to the piano. Each participating choir may choose the version that works best for them.

Questions? Please reach out to me!