Avid Technology Case Studies Revolutionizing Music Composition: Steve Reich and Sibelius Software
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Revolutionizing Music Composition: Steve Reich and Sibelius Software

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Steve Reich, a renowned American composer, was in need of a tool that could aid him in creating the innovative, cross-genre musical compositions that have earned him multiple Grammy Awards and worldwide recognition over the past five decades. Reich's music is known for its blend of western classical music, non-Western music, American vernacular music, and jazz. His career has been marked by innovation and groundbreaking musical compositions that blend genres. However, the process of composing such complex pieces was challenging. Reich recalls a time in the mid-1980s when the bill from a copyist for a large and complex piece was greater than his actual commission, leading him to seek a more efficient solution.
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Steve Reich is a distinguished American composer who has been making music for 50 years. He has been recognized as 'our greatest living composer' by The New York Times and has been credited with altering the direction of musical history. Reich's education includes an undergraduate degree from Cornell University, study at Julliard School of Music, and a master’s degree in music from Mills College. His music embraces aspects of western classical music, non-Western music, American vernacular music, and jazz. His contributions to minimalism, experimentation with tape loops, and exploration of historical and social themes have earned him multiple Grammy Awards and worldwide honors.
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Avid’s music notation software, Sibelius, provided the solution Reich was looking for. Sibelius has been critical in helping Reich compose his inspiring works for over 15 years. The software gives him creative freedom, allowing him to work out the harmonic structure of a piece on a piano or electric keyboard, then move to the computer to do all the detailed work. Sibelius' specific features also help him compose efficiently. He can easily print out a page or a single part, and even combine pencil with computer notation. The software works seamlessly to aid Reich’s creative process, supporting his blended style and making it a pleasure to work with.
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The use of Sibelius has allowed Reich to continue his creative exploration and yield big breakthroughs in his music. The software has been instrumental in the creation of his enduring compositions, including Runner, which debuted at London’s Royal Opera House in 2016. In the same year, more than 400 performances of his works took place in 20 countries. Reich's composition style, aided by Sibelius, has influenced a wide range of musicians, from rock bands to new age guitarists to electronica musicians. The software has not only provided a practical solution for Reich's composition needs but has also supported his pioneering spirit and innovative approach to music.
Over 15 years of efficient music composition with Sibelius.
More than 400 performances of his works took place in 20 countries in 2016 alone.
His new work, Runner, debuted at London’s Royal Opera House in November 2016.
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