Following the RPO’s 2026 audience report, which explored people’s attitudes to AI in music, Vasily Petrenko reflects on the impact of AI on society and music – and the skills needed for creatives to succeed in a changing world. “It is currently a very tough environment for young people who are finishing their studies in Further or Higher Education. With the advent of AI, it’s difficult to predict what the world of work will look like in 10, five – maybe even in two years’ time. The pace of change is rapid, although with music it’s slightly behind other industry sectors because art – by virtue of being art – is something that is very difficult, if possible at all, to fully replace with AI. Yes, AI is present in many aspects of music but it is the human imperfection of art that makes it something AI can cannot fully challenge, because AI is about emulation at speed and it doesn’t think for itself – or, at least, not yet.
“So, for young musicians, there are still opportunities to join orchestras and smaller ensembles, to work in creative roles and to secure positions with companies operating in the arts sector. But I think the competition is going to become much fiercer than it used to be. Addressing this, I think there are two key areas of opportunity for creatives and musicians to focus on. The first is, you still need to consider that you have to give everything you can for the sake of your dream. So, you have to work hard and even harder than before, and you have to be ready to try as many things within your profession as possible. And the second point is that you have to be adaptable – more than ever before. It’s quite possible that, in the future, life skills in adaptability – an innate willingness to change and to shift your direction, your profession completely from one side to another – will be one of the most decisive factors for professional success in the future.”
