This volume presents contributions by composers and musicologists that reveal the richness and diversity of composer John Cage, whose novel ideas included the development of the prepared piano and of the percussion orchestra, the adoption of chance and indeterminacy, the use of electronic resources, and other challenges to basic tenets of western art music. The chapters discuss aesthetic contexts; sounds, words, and images; and interaction and influence. Edited by Nicholls, U. of Southhampton). Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)