On the relation between the fields of Networked Music Performances, Ubiquitous Music, and Internet of Musical Things

Abstract

In the past two decades, we have witnessed the diffusion of an increasing number of technologies, products, and applications at the intersection of music and networking. As a result of the growing attention devoted by academy and industry to this area, three main research fields have emerged and progressively consolidated: the Networked Music Performances, Ubiquitous Music, and the Internet of Musical Things. Based on the review of the most relevant works in these fields, this paper attempts to delineate their differences and commonalities. The aim of this inquiry is helping avoid confusion between such fields and achieve a correct use of the terminology. A trend towards the convergence between such fields has already been identified, and it is plausible to expect that in the future their evolution will lead to a progressive blurring of the boundaries identified today.