In this respect, the opera is inspired by Philip Glass’s opera, the predecessor of Adams’s future words.ĭespite the fact, most of the elements of the composer’s works are premised on Glass’s compositions, there are many features that pertain Adams’s unique style. Despite these features, the harmonic structure of the composition is premised on simple music patterns that are utilized by minimalists from earlier periods (Johnson, 2011). Nixon in China displays another example Adams’s adherence to minimalism, which is specifically uncovered through repetitive rhythmic pulses. At a glance, the composition might seem to be dull and monotonous, but further development provides a deeper philosophical interpretation. In this respect, Adams’s Shaker Loops (1978) is a bright illustration of minimalism.

The core features of this music involve persistent rhythmic pulse that penetrates to the music fabric through prolonged repetition of music pieces. According to Lee (2002), “minimalism emerged as an effective alternative to the rigors of serialism and the randomness of indeterminate, or “change” music” (p. Using a limited spectrum of musical instruments and being under the influence of such composers as Steve Reich, Terry Riley, and Philip Glass, John Adams approaches the composing process as the process of materials reduction, focusing on repetitive schemes. All the motifs are largely influenced by World War II and post-war period, convincing that modern music can describe historical events. In this respect, Lee (2002) discusses Adams’s minimalist music in the context of systematic and process elements. John Adams represents a sophisticated mixture between hard-core post-modern and mainstream opera music. In this respect, the uniqueness of the musical pieces introduced by Adams consists in unusual synergy of various sciences, approaches, and styles that are typical for the post-modern era in the twentieth century. Some Adams’s works are associated with the response to the ideology of serialism that displays composers as scientists. Being among the most standout composers, Adams is distinguished by minimalist style of performance that is characterized by repeating patterns and developmental climaxes. All pieces are premised on deep historic and biographical backgrounds interpreting important events from the human history.

John adams composer