Steve Reich is one of the most acclaimed composers working today.  He was a pioneer in using recorded voices as part of his compositions. Even though Reich is no stranger to difficult subject matter (Different Trains, from 1988, is a meditation on the Holocaust), it took him nearly a decade ...

When Steve Reich visited us back in April, he spoke about the deeply personal story behind his latest work, WTC 9/11. Today, we revisit that interview – and explore the controversy that erupted several months later when the album’s initial cover image (pictured) struck a nerve. Joining us will be Anne Midgette, classical music critic for the Washington Post.

Not everyone gets worldwide tribute concerts when they turn 75—but if anyone deserves it, it’s probably composer Steve Reich. The American minimalist giant has been deemed one of the nation’s most influential composers, and his innovative use of everything from hand claps to tape loops has inspired musicians like Sufjan Stevens and Brian Eno. His newest piece, titled “WTC 9/11,” premiered earlier this year -- and will be performed in New York by the Kronos Quartet during his upcoming Carnegie Hall birthday bash. He joins us in studio to share the deeply personal story behind this newest work.

This web extra for Episode 4, The Tapse, features photos from W. Eugene Smith and an interview clip from Jazz Loft regular Carman Moore.

Trent Wolbe talks with contemporary composer Steve Reich about the various symmetrical techniques that animate the music that inspires him as well as his own works. Produced by Trent Wolbe.