**Terry Riley**
Terry Riley is an American composer and performing musician known for pioneering minimalist music. His innovative use of repetitive patterns and tape loops has significantly influenced contemporary classical and experimental music.
## Early Life and Education
Terry Riley was born on June 24, 1935, in Colfax, California. He studied composition at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and later at the University of California, Berkeley, where he was exposed to diverse musical traditions and avant-garde techniques.
## Musical Style and Innovations
Riley is widely recognized for his role in developing minimalist music, characterized by repetitive motifs and gradual changes. His groundbreaking work often incorporates tape loops, improvisation, and influences from Indian classical music, creating hypnotic and meditative soundscapes.
## Notable Works
One of Riley’s most famous compositions is *In C* (1964), which is considered a seminal minimalist piece. The work consists of 53 short musical phrases played in sequence, allowing performers flexibility in timing and repetition. Other significant works include *A Rainbow in Curved Air* (1969), which showcases his use of electronic keyboards and looping techniques.
## Influence and Legacy
Terry Riley’s innovations have had a profound impact on contemporary music, influencing composers, performers, and genres beyond classical music, including rock and electronic music. His approach to composition and performance has inspired generations of musicians exploring minimalism and experimental sound.
## Later Career
Throughout his career, Riley has continued to compose, perform, and collaborate with various artists worldwide. He remains an active figure in contemporary music, contributing to the evolution of minimalist and experimental genres.
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**META_DESCRIPTION:**
Terry Riley is an American composer known for pioneering minimalist music with works like *In C*. His innovative use of repetition and tape loops has influenced contemporary classical and experimental music.