Meet the Composer: Philip Glass
Age Range: Elementary, Middle School, High School
Introduction: Composers write music, just like authors write books. In the Class Notes “Meet the Composer” series, we will learn a little bit about the achievements, backstory, and influences of a variety of composers. Get ready to learn about these influential composers and listen to some of their music.
Total Video Time: 11:53
Total Lesson Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
BACKGROUND on Philip Glass
Philip Glass was born in 1937 in Baltimore, Maryland. His father owned a record store, so Philip was introduced to many kinds of music at an early age. He began playing several different instruments, composing, and attending music schools in both the United States and Europe. During his studies he was introduced to and influenced by music from India. He began to integrate elements of Indian music into traditional Western classical music to contribute to a new style, often referred to as “minimalism.” Minimalism is characterized by repeating patterns and layers of repetitive motifs, or short melodies. Philip Glass also has an interest in eastern philosophy and religion, visual art, dance, theater, and movies. He often collaborates with artists working in these fields. He lives and works in New York City.
MUSIC of Philip Glass
Philip Glass’ music often includes fast repetitive patterns. As you watch the pianist’s hands in this short etude, or study piece, notice the patterns and repetitions.
Philip Glass has composed several film scores. A score is original music composed especially for a movie. In the next video clip, you will see excerpts, or a small part, of a film score that Philip Glass composed for the silent movie Dracula. It’s being performed live, and Philip Glass is playing the keyboard part in this video.
Philip Glass has been influenced by many styles of music. In the 1980s, he composed a set of six songs with lyrics written by pop and indie musicians. Here is one of those songs.
CREATE, CONNECT & RESPOND to Glass’s music
As a child, Philip Glass was influenced by his father’s record store. Another composer named Jessie Montgomery was also influenced by record stores. Learn more about that connection in the Class Notes Listening Lesson: Jessie Montgomery and Musical Influence.
Philip Glass has spoken about meditation practice in his own life. If you’d like to explore some easy guided meditation exercises with music, try any lesson in the Class Notes Music & Mindfulness series.
Related Lesson Plans
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This activity is made possible in part by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment’s Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.
