Although he has not yet reached the milestone, celebrations for Steve Reich’s 90th birthday are already underway. The renowned composer recently saw the world premiere of his new large ensemble work, In All Your Ways, at the Edinburgh festival last month, followed by a late-night performance at the BBC Proms.
When approached about his upcoming birthday on October 3, Reich remained characteristically reserved. “I haven’t quite got there yet,” he said. “I don’t want to dot the i before I even get there. I’ll let you know in due course …”
Born in New York in 1936, Reich has spent the last six decades crafting music that has fundamentally altered the auditory landscape of modern life across Europe and North America. His innovative approach has drawn high praise from critics and influenced prominent figures such as David Bowie.
The New Yorker has described him as “the most original musical thinker of our time,” cementing his status as one of the most supremely influential living composers.
He’s too modest! ‘I haven’t quite got there yet’—pfft, he’s already a legend. Just celebrate him!
David Bowie citing Reich as an influence is wild. You really never know what seeds composers plant for pop music.
I always found minimalism a bit repetitive. Does anyone here feel his newer works are more accessible than the classics?
Still going strong at ninety! That Edinburgh premiere proves his creative spark isn’t fading anytime soon.