This introduction to Philip Glass's music reflects the belief of Kostelanetz that the avant-garde minimalist is a popular composer. There are detailed analyses of his compositions and particular attention is paid to the composer's musical development. Glass undertook rigorous training at Juilliard and with Nadia Boulanger in Paris but decided early on that he wanted to compose independently, apart from institutions, causing him to become a controversial figure among academic musicians. This work brings together a collection of writings on Philip Glass's work, along with several interviews and a conversation between Glass and sculpter Richard Serra.