John Cage (1912-1992) was born in Los Angeles, and studied music with Henry Cowell and Arnold Schonberg before becoming the musical director of the Merce Cunningham Dance Company. He is known for revolutionizing the parameters in music, experimenting with everyday objects as his instruments and incorporating elements of chance into his compositions. He is created with conducing the first "happenings" at Black Mountain College, and is celebrated for his writings, poetry, and work in the graphic arts arena.