Reminds me of a SF book I read quite a while back. Subatomic physics had advanced to the point that chance had been eliminated and everything was believed to be predetermined. The physicist whose work had led to this had also invented an automated "orchestra" that could play any composition on physical instruments (as opposed to using synthesizers). I can't remember the author or title of the book right now. I remember it had a Mithraic cult in it... rats. My mind is going.
Anyway, I'd rather hear a live musician perform any day.
