Minimalists

This accessible yet informative book, the first in its area aimed at a general readership, offers a unique overview of the controversial musical style of Minimalism—a name originally attributed to the movement as a derogatory term, in the same way as Impressionism was first derisively labeled by art critics. Minimalism, perhaps best represented by American composers Steve Reich and Philip Glass, has always had a mixed reception and is both reviled and revered in equal measure. This book looks at the development of Minimalism and discusses the conflicting opinions surrounding it, while considering the music itself and those that create it within their social, cultural, and historical contexts.

Minimalists is part of Phaidon's successful 20th Century Composers series, which presents authoritative and engaging biographies of the great creative musicians of our time, augmented by striking visual material and essential reference information. This edition of the book features a whimsical new cover by Jean-Jacques Sempé, the world-renowned illustrator and cartoonist.