Full Program

Tuning the Machine: Power, Protocol, and Creative AI

Thursday, August 27, 2026
3:00 pm_4:00 pm

Atrium et Studio-Théâtre des Grands Ballets

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85$

Day Pass price, excl. fees & taxes

Box Office Festival Passes

What does fair, just, and transparent AI actually look like in practice for music, digital creativity, and the artists and musicians at the center of it all?

Analyzing the current (and anticipated) creative and business shifts happening right now within AI and music, this panel moves past the debate and into concrete solutions: licensing frameworks, open protocols, transparency tools. Moderated by Zeina Abi Assy of Mozilla Festival, one of the world’s leading festivals for digital rights, open technology and internet health; the conversation is co-presented with SOCAN, Canada’s largest member-based rights management organization.

The panel brings together four voices from different corners of the ecosystem: Margaret McGuffin, CEO of Music Publishers Canada, and recipient of the Billboard Canada Impact Award 2026, one the most prominent advocates for ensuring AI is implemented fairly and equitably; Sean Power, CEO and co-founder of Musical AI, bringing a builder’s perspective on what responsible AI tools for music actually look like; Jesse McKee, Head of Digital Strategy at 221A, working at the intersection of policy, finance, and cultural stewardship; and Paul McCabe, Senior Vice President of Research and Innovation at Roland Future Design Lab, leading a global R&D team exploring emerging trends, fostering innovation, and helping shape the future of the creative landscape.

Please note: this activity will be in English, with live transcription available.