John Cage

Born

September 5, 1912

Died

August 12, 1992 (aged 79)

Known as

composer, writer, poet, university teacher, musicologist, philosopher

John Milton Cage Jr. was an American composer, visual artist and music theorist. A pioneer of indeterminacy in music, electroacoustic music, and non-standard use of musical instruments, Cage was one of the leading figures of the post-war avant-garde. Critics have lauded him as one of the most influential composers of the 20th century. He was also instrumental in the development of modern dance, mostly through his association with choreographer Merce Cunningham, who was also Cage's romantic partner for most of their lives.

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