Avant Garde composer, musician, and sonic pioneer Karlheinz Stockhausen passed away over the weekend in his home in Germany.

A controversial figure throughout his career, Stockhausen explored the relationship between sounds, not just rhythm and melody.

Although his music is far from accessible to everyday listeners, many musicians cite him as an influence: he helped Miles Davis step into free jazz, The Beatles gave him a spot on the cover of Sgt. Peppers, and even Bjork talks about his influence on her.

He wrote over 300 compositions but was also instrumental in collaborating with several prominent composers as well.

His most ambitious composition was an opera over 29 hours long, ranging from cosmic consciousness to his own ego - something that frequently got him in trouble.

He is survived by his wife and six children.

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