"Most of my influences are turn-of-the-century"

George Crumb is an American composer who has been influential in the development of modern symphonic music. His quote, "Most of my influences are turn-of-the-century," talks to his appreciation for the music of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This period of music was marked by a shift away from standard forms and structures, and towards more experimental and avant-garde approaches. Crumb's music reflects this shift, as he typically integrates aspects of jazz, folk, and other categories into his structures. He also draws inspiration from the works of authors such as Debussy, Ravel, and Stravinsky, who were all active throughout this duration. Crumb's music is typically characterized by its use of extended strategies, such as microtones, and its expedition of unusual timbres and textures. His quote talks to his appreciation for the music of this age, and his desire to draw from its impact in his own work.