This past week was the birthday of Philip Glass. I have to admit, I didn't always like Glass' work growing up. I loved Bach and Beethoven, and I didn't really understand what Glass was trying to do. However, now I just can't get enough of his music!
You can't listen to Glass' music and expect the explosive sound of Beethoven or the traditional sound of Bach. When listening to Glass, you need to shut the rest of the world out, quiet down your body, and just listen.
Aside from ensemble and piano solo music, Glass has also written soundtracks for movies. He has won awards for his music in both The Hours and The Truman Show.
Glass is known for his "minimalist" composing; he loves to repeat a section over and over again, and once in a while he'll change a note or two to keep the piece moving. As a result, his pieces can be long and repetitive, but if you take the time to listen quietly, I think that you will be surprised at how calm and refreshed you feel afterwards.
Below is a piece called "Glassworks" by Philip Glass. I hope you enjoy it!
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