The Masters of Minimalism
24 June 2015
Composer Terry Riley, who has just celebrated his 80th birthday, helped pioneer the minimalist movement in 1960s America along with Steve Reich, Philip Glass and others.
Breaking from the Western classical tradition, and drawing on new developments in visual art and jazz, their hypnotic, pulsing sounds have influenced generations of musicians, from Brian Eno and David Bowie to countless electronic producers around the world.
Follow the links to read our profile of Riley as he enters his ninth decade, accompanied by some rare footage from the BBC archive; and watch our full interviews with Steve Reich and Philip Glass ahead of their recent appearance at the Minimal Glasgow festival. Plus, below, Reich and Glass reflect on what minimalism means.
What is minimalism?
Steve Reich and Philip Glass explain the concept of minimalism and what it means to them.
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Art of Glass: Creating a new musical language
An interview with the influential composer who pioneered a new direction in music.
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Californian dreamer: Terry Riley at 80
A profile of the composer behind seminal minimalist works such as In C.
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Rhythm king: Steve Reich on his musical evolution
An interview with the composer famed for his looping and phasing techniques.
