Philip Glass, born January 31, 1937, is an American composer and pianist widely recognized as a leading figure in late 20th-century music. A pioneer of minimalism, his style is distinguished by repetitive structures and shifting layers, which he helped develop and popularize. Glass founded the Philip Glass Ensemble in 1968 and has created an extensive body of work, including 15 operas, 14 symphonies, 12 concertos, numerous chamber works, and acclaimed film scores. Notable operas include Einstein on the Beach, Satyagraha, and Akhnaten, while his film credits feature Kundun, The Hours, The Truman Show, and The Illusionist. He has been nominated for multiple Grammy and Academy Awards and has received major honors such as a Golden Globe, BAFTA, the National Medal of Arts, Kennedy Center Honors, and a Lifetime Achievement award from the World Soundtrack Academy. Glass remains influential for his innovative approach to contemporary classical music.