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Steve Reich Turns 90: Minimalist Composer Celebrated for Influencing Richter, Eno, and Björk

artist · 2026-09-25

Steve Reich, the composer whose rhythmically intense and rigorously archaic music has inspired artists from Gerhard Richter to Brian Eno to Björk, celebrates his 90th birthday on Saturday. The milestone highlights his enduring influence across contemporary art and music. Reich's work, characterized by pulsating rhythms and strict structures, has left a mark on a wide range of creative figures. His impact extends beyond the concert hall, reaching visual artists and pop musicians alike. Born in 1936, Reich remains a pivotal figure in minimalist music. The occasion prompts reflections on his legacy and continued relevance. His compositions have shaped generations of artists and musicians.

Key facts

  • Steve Reich turns 90 on Saturday.
  • His music is described as rhythmically brooding and archaically strict.
  • He has inspired artists including Gerhard Richter, Brian Eno, and Björk.
  • Reich is a central figure in minimalist music.
  • His influence spans both visual art and popular music.
  • The birthday is celebrated on a Saturday.
  • Reich's work is known for its rhythmic complexity.
  • He remains an influential composer in contemporary music.

Entities

Artists

Institutions

  • Southbank Centre
  • Radiohead
  • Financial Times
  • NPR
  • Fresh Air
  • Carnegie Hall
  • Edinburgh International Festival
  • Colin Currie Group
  • Kronos Quartet
  • Deutsche Grammophon
  • Nonesuch
  • Cornell University
  • Juilliard
  • Mills College
  • Boston Symphony Orchestra
  • Jewish Theological Seminary
  • Yellow Cab company
  • U.S. Post Office
  • The New Yorker
  • BBC Proms
  • BBC Radio 1
  • Edinburgh festival
  • Glasshouse
  • Paraorchestra
  • Barbican Centre
  • Steve Reich and Musicians
  • the Orb

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • New York
  • San Francisco
  • Edinburgh
  • Scotland
  • Los Angeles
  • Chicago
  • Rotterdam
  • Netherlands
  • Oregon
  • Boston
  • Hungary
  • Paris
  • France
  • Belgium
  • West Africa
  • East Africa
  • Indonesia
  • Gateshead
  • England
  • Hanover
  • Germany

Sources