A system for real-time music collaboration over a network

Abstract

A system (100) for real-time music collaboration over a network, comprising: a) a plurality of client interface modules, each configured to capture audio and MIDI inputs from a user and transmit those inputs over a network; b) an audio / MIDI processing module configured to encode captured audio and MIDI signals for transmission and to decode received signals for playback; (c) a time synchronisation module configured to maintain a consistent time reference for all client interface modules using time stamping and synchronisation protocols; d) a latency management module configured to monitor network conditions and dynamically compensate for transmission delays using adaptive buffering and prediction algorithms; (e) a collaboration server module configured to manage session metadata, route audio and MIDI signals, and coordinate participant activities; (f) a network and transport module configured to establish and maintain secure, low-latency communication channels between the client interface modules and the server module; g) the system enabling multiple users to participate in a synchronised real-time musical performance regardless of their geographical location.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of digital audio processing and communications, and more particularly to a system for enabling real-time collaboration and performance of music between multiple users over a computer network.

[0002] Musical collaboration traditionally takes place in close proximity, meaning musicians must be in the same location to rehearse, perform, or record together. With the advent of the internet and high-speed networks, remote collaboration among musicians has become possible, but current solutions face significant challenges such as network latency, synchronization errors, audio degradation, and limited interactivity.

[0003] While various platforms offer file sharing, asynchronous collaboration, or live streaming, few support synchronous, real-time interaction between multiple remote musicians with minimal latency and maximum audio compatibility. Therefore, there is a need for a robust system and method that enables seamless, collaborative, real-time music performance across a distributed network.

[0004] One goal of this disclosure is to enable musicians to perform together in real time, regardless of their geographical location, thereby overcoming the barriers to remote collaboration.

[0005] Another object of the present disclosure is to use optimized coding and adaptive buffering to ensure minimal delay and support tight musical synchronization.

[0006] Another objective of the present disclosure is to support professional audio quality using efficient codecs to ensure sound integrity during live sessions.

[0007] Another objective of the present disclosure is to use global session clocks and timestamps to keep all participants in perfect rhythm and timing.

[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to automatically detect and compensate for network jitter, delay, and drift to ensure smooth performance under variable conditions.

[0009] Another objective of this disclosure is to provide tools for managing participants, roles, tempo, key and arrangement in real time, thus optimising collaboration.

[0010] Another aspect of the present disclosure is compatibility with third-party plugins and digital audio workstations, allowing for seamless extension of creative workflows.

[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to add synchronized video and visual timing displays to improve coordination and communication during live play.

[0012] The present invention relates to a system for real-time music collaboration and performance over a network, enabling geographically dispersed users to perform synchronized musical creations and interactions. The system integrates multiple functional modules, including client interfaces, audio / MIDI processing, time synchronization, latency management, networking, and collaboration control, to create a seamless, low-latency environment for live music sessions. It supports high-fidelity audio and MIDI transmission and reception, dynamic latency compensation, accurate time synchronization, and optional video communication.In addition, the system enables role-based session management, multi-track recording, and plug-in integration with external audio tools and digital audio workstations (DAWs), providing musicians, producers, and performers with a robust and flexible platform for collaborative composition, rehearsal, and live performance, regardless of physical location. Client interface module

[0013] The Client Interface Module acts as the primary access point for each user participating in a real-time music collaboration session. This module installs on the user's computing device (such as a desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone) and facilitates communication between the user and the system. It enables the capture of real-time audio from microphones, instruments, or other connected devices, as well as MIDI signals from compatible hardware or software instruments. The user interface includes visual elements such as track controls, level meters, latency indicators, and session collaboration tools. From this module, users can initiate sessions, join ongoing performances, adjust their audio mix, and communicate with other participants via text or control data. Audio / MIDI processing module

[0014] The Audio / MIDI Processing module is responsible for processing all audio and MIDI signal workflows in real time. After capturing inputs via the Client Interface module, this module encodes the audio signals using a high-quality, low-latency codec, such as Opus or FLAC, optimized for live performance. It also decodes incoming audio and MIDI data from other remote participants and routes the streams for synchronized playback. The module can apply DSP (digital signal processing) effects in real time, such as equalization, compression, delay, or reverb. It also ensures that MIDI events are standardized and correctly mapped, enabling seamless interaction between different virtual and physical instruments used by different collaborators. Latency management module

[0015] The Latency Management module is a critical component for reducing and compensating for network-related delays. It continuously monitors round-trip times (RTT), jitter, packet loss, and other relevant network metrics. Based on these measurements, the module dynamically adjusts buffer sizes and playback offsets to align the audio and MIDI signals received from multiple participants. For unstable networks, it can implement predictive buffering and adaptive algorithms to maintain continuity without compromising synchronization. Users can also manually adjust latency settings to prioritize real-time responsiveness or audio stability, depending on the type of collaboration. Time synchronization module

[0016] The Time Synchronization Module ensures that all users participating in a session share a common time base for perfect musical synchronization. This module can designate one device as the master clock or use a consensus-driven algorithm to determine a central time reference. It uses synchronization protocols such as the Network Time Protocol (NTP), the Precision Time Protocol (PTP), or proprietary timestamping mechanisms to synchronize the clocks of geographically dispersed clients. Each audio and MIDI packet is timestamped based on this reference, and playback is aligned accordingly. The module compensates for clock drift and delay, maintaining synchronization accuracy within a tight tolerance—typically within ±5 milliseconds. Collaboration Server Module

[0017] The Collaboration Server module serves as the central coordination point for all real-time sessions. This module handles participant authentication, session creation, invitation management, and overall system coordination. It routes encoded audio and MIDI signals between users either directly or via peer-to-peer paths, depending on network conditions and proximity. The server can also support decentralized (mesh) operation for localized groups of users. Other tasks include bandwidth optimization, traffic prioritization, and quality of service (QoS) management to ensure stable, low-latency operation. The server can optionally record session metadata and save user configurations to ensure continuity across sessions. Network and transport module

[0018] The Network and Transport module manages all low-level communication protocols required for real-time data exchange. It establishes and maintains secure connections using protocols such as UDP, TCP, or WebRTC, depending on the operating environment and session requirements. The module implements NAT traversal techniques, including STUN, TURN, and ICE protocols, to facilitate direct peer-to-peer communication across firewalls. It ensures efficient packet delivery and prioritizes time-critical data such as audio and MIDI signals while deprioritizing less critical packets. The module is designed to operate reliably even under variable internet conditions and supports fallback mechanisms such as reduced audio fidelity or an audio-only mode in case of network degradation. Session management module

[0019] The Session Management module provides tools and infrastructure for coordinating and controlling the collaborative music session. This includes assigning user roles (e.g., host, collaborator, listener, or session manager), managing participant permissions, and synchronizing global musical parameters such as tempo, time signature, and key. The module also supports collaborative features such as shared chord progressions, lead sheets, and arrangement templates. Participants can edit and rearrange pieces in real time, with updates reflected on all clients. In addition, the file sharing feature allows dragging and dropping audio clips, MIDI files, or DAW project files directly into the session for immediate use. Optional video and visual cue module

[0020] The optional Video and Visual Cue module enables visual communication and coordination between musicians during a live session. This module enables real-time video streaming between participants, synchronized with the audio stream to ensure minimal audiovisual desynchronization. Visual cues—such as metronome pulses, beat indicators, or gesture recognition from a virtual conductor—are presented on the user interface to aid timing precision. While this module is not essential to the core audio functionality, it enhances the collaborative experience by providing additional context and nonverbal cues during performance or rehearsal. Recording and playback module

[0021] The Recording and Playback module provides comprehensive features for recording and reviewing collaborative music sessions. It supports multi-track recording, allowing each user's input to be recorded separately for post-session mixing and editing. Recordings can be saved locally or uploaded to a cloud-based archive for access and sharing. During playback, the module ensures that all recorded tracks remain time-aligned based on their original synchronization. The module also allows users to mark up sessions with markers, notes, and comments, facilitating structured review and future production work. Plugin and integration module

[0022] The Plugin and Integration Module allows you to expand system functionality by connecting third-party software and hardware. It offers support for standard plugin formats such as VST, AU, and LV2, allowing users to load virtual instruments and audio effects into the session. It also includes APIs and SDKs for developers to create their own plugins or integrate external applications. Compatibility with common digital audio workstations (DAWs), MIDI controllers, and external sound libraries ensures a flexible environment that can be adapted to various studio and performance setups.

[0023] The invention is explained again below with reference to the figures. In the following, Fig. : Illustrates a system (100) for collaborating and performing music in real time over a network.

[0024] Fig.illustrates a system (100) for real-time music collaboration. Operation of the real-time music collaboration system begins when users launch the client interface module on their devices, which captures the audio and MIDI inputs from connected instruments or microphones. This data is sent to the audio / MIDI processing module, where it is encoded using low-latency codecs and prepared for transmission. The network and transport module then establishes secure communication channels to transmit the data over the Internet. Simultaneously, the time synchronization module aligns all participants to a common session clock, while the latency management module adjusts buffers and playback timing to ensure tight synchronization. The collaboration server module coordinates the session by routing audio and MIDI streams, managing user roles, and managing session metadata.Optional visual and video cues can be integrated to support the performance. The result is a seamless, interactive live music experience where users can perform, record, and create music together in real time from different locations.

Claims

[1] A system (100) for real-time music collaboration over a network, comprising: a) a plurality of client interface modules, each configured to capture audio and MIDI inputs from a user and transmit those inputs over a network; b) an audio / MIDI processing module configured to encode captured audio and MIDI signals for transmission and to decode received signals for playback; (c) a time synchronisation module configured to maintain a consistent time reference for all client interface modules using time stamping and synchronisation protocols; d) a latency management module configured to monitor network conditions and dynamically compensate for transmission delays using adaptive buffering and prediction algorithms; (e) a collaboration server module configured to manage session metadata, route audio and MIDI signals, and coordinate participant activities; (f) a network and transport module configured to establish and maintain secure, low-latency communication channels between the client interface modules and the server module; g) the system enabling multiple users to participate in a synchronised real-time musical performance regardless of their geographical location. [2] The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the audio / MIDI processing module further comprises real-time audio effects processing comprising at least one of the following: equalization, compression, delay, or reverb. [3] The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the time synchronization module uses a master clock or a distributed consensus algorithm to maintain time alignment with an accuracy of ±5 milliseconds. [4] The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the latency management module dynamically adjusts the playback delay based on real-time measurements of round-trip time (RTT), jitter, and packet loss. [5] The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the collaboration server module further enables role-based session management, including assignment of roles such as host, performer, listener, and administrator. [6] The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the client interface modules further comprise a user interface for visualizing audio levels, latency statistics, and session controls, as well as for displaying shared notation and lyrics. [7] The system (100) of claim 1 further comprises a video and visual cue module configured to transmit real-time video between the participants and to display metronome or beat indicators synchronized with the audio stream. [8] The system (100) of claim 1 further comprises a plug-in and integration module configured to support third-party audio plug-ins and to integrate with external digital audio workstations (DAWs).

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