Apple Music error when attempting to play a CD

OS: Sonoma v14.5

Apple Music: v14.5.36

ERROR:

Error occurred while converting the file “TRACK NAME”. An unknown error occurred (-54).

This is specific to a Mac Mini. I'm not trying to use the Music app on the iPhone.

I get this error when attempting to listen to a music CD. I'm using an external optical drive connected by USB to a Mac Mini which was purchased in 2Q 2024. I can see the files on this CD in Finder and in Music. I can Get Info on the tracks contained on this CD. The optical drive works - it plays a DVD. I just can't get any of the CD tracks to play. Here's what I have tried:

1. Confirmed the OS version is current.
2. Restart the Mac. Same error message.
3. Start Music app in safe mode. Same error message.
4. Disconnect and reconnect the external optical drive. Same error message.
5. Tried a different CD. Same error message.
6. Confirmed that the CD plays in a separate device (a BluRay player separate from the Mac Mini).
7. Played other songs in the Music library to confirm the app plays music files.

There are probably a lot more technical things to try, and that's why I'm asking. But I tried the obvious and am making no progress.

I want to be clear this is related to the Mac Mini. I'm not asking about the iPhone Music app - I rarely use that app. I'm not trying to allow anyone else to share my music. I just want the Mac Music app to play music from a CD in an external optical drive.