Stephen Michael Reich, born on October 3, 1936, is an influential American composer renowned for his contributions to minimal music during the 1960s. His compositions exhibit distinctive features such as repetition and innovative structures. In his essay, “Music as a Gradual Process,” Reich expresses his fascination with music that evolves perceptibly over time. Early works like It’s Gonna Rain and Come Out utilised tape loops, creating a unique sound through phase shifting, where musical phrases gradually fall out of sync.

Reich’s landmark pieces, such as Drumming and Music for 18 Musicians, showcase intricate patterns and rhythms, with influences from various musical traditions. His style later incorporated themes from his Jewish heritage, as seen in Different Trains, which contrasts his childhood train journeys with the haunting experiences of children during the Holocaust. Today, Reich’s innovative techniques continue to inspire many composers and musicians around the world, solidifying his legacy as one of the key figures in contemporary music.