Masterpieces of Minimal Music | Including Lesser-Known Works
One of the indispensable genres when discussing contemporary music is minimal music.
Even if you’ve heard the name, many people may not be quite sure about its definition.
Surprisingly, the definition of minimal music is simple: it primarily involves the persistent repetition of similar melodic patterns.
In terms of atmosphere, it generally feels close to ambient music.
This time, we’ve selected some classic tracks of minimal music.
There are some lesser-known works included as well, so even those who already love minimal music should definitely check them out.
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Masterpieces of Minimal Music | Lesser-Known Works Also Featured (1–10)
Anthracite FieldsJulia Wolfe
Minimal music is characterized by repeating the same melody over a long period of time.
This trait pairs well with building a piece’s world, resulting in many tracks that people might describe as having a distinct “atmosphere.” Anthracite Fields is one such work of minimal music with a clearly articulated world, and its tone perfectly matches the title’s image of “fields of anthracite.” Be sure to give it a listen.
Infra 1Max Richter
Opening with a hushed tone reminiscent of Morse code, “Infra 1” was composed by Max Richter, a British musician born in Germany.
While repeating similar motifs, the piece unfolds an emotional, cinematic world.
Incidentally, Richter’s music has been used in numerous visual works, including the Leonardo DiCaprio film “Shutter Island” and the series “The Handmaid’s Tale.”
In CTerry Riley
When it comes to minimalist music composers, we mustn’t forget Terry Riley alongside Steve Reich.
His signature piece, In C, as the title suggests, involves persistently repeating the note C on the piano—a textbook example of minimalist music.
This work, which feels like “listening to contemporary art” and would be perfectly at home performed in a museum, never grows dull despite its simple melodic repetition.
Its secret lies in the structural characteristics of each instrument and the subtle differences in touch that vary ever so slightly from performer to performer.
Masterpieces of Minimal Music | Lesser-Known Works Also Featured (11–20)
The Little Match Girl PassionDavid Lang
When you think of minimal music, doesn’t everyone picture instrumental works? It’s true that the genre is basically instrumental, but there are pieces that focus on vocals as well.
Among them, the one I particularly recommend is The Little Match Girl Passion.
It blends hymnody with minimal music, offering a rich, weighty melody while still creating a relaxing atmosphere.
Fearful SymmetriesJohn Adams
One of the leading composers of minimal music, John Adams.
To make things confusing, there are actually three composers in minimal music named John Adams, but when people say “John Adams,” they generally mean John Coolidge Adams, who released Fearful Symmetries.
This piece is a quintessential work of minimal music—a masterpiece that evokes an exciting, anticipatory feeling, like just before setting off on an adventure.
Salve ReginaArvo Part
When people hear “minimal music,” many probably imagine soothing tracks.
And indeed, such tones make up the majority of minimal music.
However, there are also pieces that evoke a horror-like mood.
One such work is Salve Regina.
Centered on mixed male and female chorus, it differs from typical minimal music in that its repeating phrases are crafted to last longer.
Be sure to check it out.
AtticaFrederic Rzewski
Frederic Rzewski, an American composer known for works that embed political and social messages within minimal music.
His piece “Attica” was inspired by the 1971 prison uprising at Attica Correctional Facility.
The narrator’s line, “Attica is in front of me,” is repeated as sounds—including a drone—are layered in.
It’s not music to be passively listened to; Rzewski’s passion to make society even a little better through music stirs the hearts of those who hear it.