Minimalism

John Adams (1947 - )

A new genre developed among American composers in the mid-twentieth century known as minimalism. Similar in sound to impressionism, this style of music foregoes elaborate melodies and formal structures, subsisting rather in simple harmonies and rhythms that undergo subtle changes throughout the piece.

The style was pioneered by Philip Glass, who was classically trained at the Julliard School of Music but took a keen interest in the musical traditions of India. Composers like Steve Reich and John Adams followed suit. Minimalism is now commonly used in motion picture soundtracks since it works well as tone-setting background.