Boston Symphony Debuts New AI-Integrated Work
The Boston Symphony Orchestra performs Tod Machover's new composition titled already and not yet at Symphony Hall.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Classical
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The Boston Symphony Orchestra has premiered a new symphony by MIT Media Lab professor Tod Machover titled already and not yet. The work integrates AI tools to interact with the performers during the performance at Symphony Hall.
Why it matters
The composer designed the symphony as a meditation on the current crisis and promise of democracy. The performances also serve to mark the 40th anniversary of the MIT Media Lab.
The symphony is comprised of 3 distinct movements titled Smash Up, Wake Up, and Stand Up. The project was supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council through the New Works Fund.
The players
Tod Machover
He is a professor at the MIT Media Lab known for his work in music technology.
Boston Symphony Orchestra
This prestigious musical institution commissioned the new work.
MIT Media Lab
This interdisciplinary research laboratory is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
Manaswi Mishra
She is the designer and builder of the AI systems used in the performance.
Ana Schon
She serves as the sound mixer for the new symphonic performance.
The details
The piece utilizes a Live AI system, built by Manaswi Mishra, to underscore the individual distinctiveness of each musician on stage. During the third movement, loudspeakers are used to project the orchestral sound throughout the hall.
Timeline
The world premiere of the symphony took place on October 22, 2026.
The symphony is scheduled for performances through October 24, 2026.
A Seoul City Symphony project is scheduled to premiere in September 2027.
Industry Dynamics
This performance marks the ongoing intersection of artificial intelligence and classical composition as established by the MIT Media Lab. It positions orchestral music as a modern laboratory for tech-integrated human expression against traditional performance standards.
Attendees at Symphony Hall can experience the new work through October 24, 2026. The performance features advanced sound engineering that allows the audience to hear the AI-orchestra integration throughout the venue.
The takeaway
This premiere showcases how modern technology can serve as a collaborator in traditional symphonic settings. Audiences interested in the future of performance arts may look toward upcoming City Symphony projects for further developments in this space.
What happens next
The Seoul City Symphony project, another initiative involving the composer, is scheduled to have its world premiere in September 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the local arts scene in our Classical section.
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