# DeformTune: A Deformable XAI Music Prototype for Non-Musicians

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2508.00160 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2508.00160/

## Key facts

- No citing papers in the map yet (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 3 of its 11 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 31 Jul 2025.

## Builds on (most cited first, 3 of 3)

- [Question-Driven Design Process for Explainable AI User Experiences](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2104.03483/) (2021)
- [Learning to Traverse Latent Spaces for Musical Score Inpainting](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1907.01164/) (2019)
- [A Context-Sensitive Approach to XAI in Music Performance](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2309.04491/) (2023)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Many existing AI music generation tools rely on text prompts, complex interfaces, or instrument-like controls, which may require musical or technical knowledge that non-musicians do not possess. This paper introduces DeformTune, a prototype system that combines a tactile deformable interface with the MeasureVAE model to explore more intuitive, embodied, and explainable AI interaction. We conducted a preliminary study with 11 adult participants without formal musical training to investigate their experience with AI-assisted music creation. Thematic analysis of their feedback revealed recurring challenge--including unclear control mappings, limited expressive range, and the need for guidance throughout use. We discuss several design opportunities for enhancing explainability of AI, including multimodal feedback and progressive interaction support. These findings contribute early insights toward making AI music systems more explainable and empowering for novice users.