Lou Harrison

Lou Harrison, born on May fourteenth, nineteen seventeen, was a multifaceted American composer, music critic, and theorist, whose artistic journey spanned various disciplines including painting and the creation of unique musical instruments. Initially, Harrison's compositions reflected a dissonant, ultramodernist style, reminiscent of his mentor and contemporary, Henry Cowell. However, his musical evolution led him to embrace and incorporate elements from non-Western cultures, particularly through his engagement with Javanese gamelan music.

His introduction to the esteemed gamelan musician Kanjeng Notoprojo profoundly influenced his work, prompting him to compose numerous pieces specifically for gamelan instruments. Alongside his partner, William Colvig, Harrison became a pivotal figure in the American gamelan movement, contributing to the broader world music landscape. He is often mentioned in the same breath as other notable composers such as Harry Partch and Claude Vivier, as well as ethnomusicologist Colin McPhee.

Harrison's innovative spirit was evident in his preference for just intonation over the more commonly used equal temperament, making him a prominent figure in the exploration of microtones. His commitment to pushing musical boundaries also extended to his use of the international language Esperanto, marking him as one of the early composers to do so. Furthermore, Harrison's works often featured strong themes of homosexuality, reflecting his personal identity and experiences.