Born 15 February 1947, John Adams is one of America's most esteemed composers. Although his musical roots were in minimalism he has, like most other composers from that school, developed an orchestral and harmonic style that uses the rhythmic vitality of minimalism combined with a romantic accessibility.This CD is a wonderful introduction to Adams's music: it includes the light-hearted Grand Pianola Music of 1982; Shaker Loops, the last three movements of which have been used in a video game, and the spectacular and exciting Short Ride in a Fast Machine, which is exactly what it is!