John Milton Cage Jr. (September 5, 1912 – August 12, 1992) was an American composer. A pioneer of chance music, electronic music and non-standard use of musical instruments, Cage was one of the leading figures of the post-war avant-garde and the most influential American composer of the 20th century.Pritchett, Grove: "He has had a greater impact on music in the 20th century than any other American composer." He was also instrumental in the development of modern dance, mostly through his association with choreographer Merce Cunningham, who was also Cage's romantic partner for the most part of the latter's life. Cage is perhaps best known for his 1952 composition 4?33?, the three movements of which are performed without a single note being played. Although 4?33? in fact consists of the sounds of the environment that the listeners hear while it is performed,Kostelanetz, 69-70 it is frequently erroneo