Philip Glass is one of the most influential composers of the late 20th century and a leader of the 'Minimalist' movement. His music is built on repetitive melodic patterns and steady rhythmic pulses that shift subtly over time. His 1976 opera 'Einstein on the Beach' broke all the rules of the genre, lasting five hours with no intermission and no traditional plot. Glass has bridged the gap between the opera house and popular culture, collaborating with artists like David Bowie and scoring numerous films, including 'The Hours' and 'Koyaanisqatsi.' While initially controversial, his 'Glass-ian' sound has become ubiquitous in modern media. He has been nominated for three Academy Awards and won a Golden Globe, proving that experimental music can find a massive global audience.