Avant-garde composer George Crumb, RIP

Avant-garde composer George Crumb has died at 92. The New York Times reports:

George Crumb, a composer who filled his works with a magpie array of instrumental and human sounds and drew on the traditions of Asia and his native Appalachia to create music of startling effect, died on Sunday at his home in Media, Pa. He was 92.

His death was announced by Bridge Records, his record label.

While rejecting the sometimes arid 12-tone technique of Modernists, Mr. Crumb beguiled audiences with his own musical language, composing colorful and concise works that range in mood from peaceful to nightmarish.

He continued to compose late in life. His 90th birthday was celebrated by organizations including the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, which presented the premiere of a new piece for percussion quintet.

Tributes to George came in from fellow musicians, including Radiohead's Jonny Greenwood, Max Richter, Lyra Pramuk, and Patrick Higgins. Watch some videos and read tributes to him below.

Rest in peace, George.

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