Cornelius Cardew was a British composer and pianist, born on September 7, 1936, in London. He is best known for his avant-garde music and his role in the London Musicians' Collective. Cardew's work often challenged traditional musical forms and emphasized the importance of improvisation and collaboration. In the 1960s, Cardew became associated with the Scratch Orchestra, a group that aimed to democratize music-making. His notable compositions include Treatise, a graphic score that allows performers to interpret the music freely. Cardew's influence extended beyond composition, as he also engaged in political activism and education throughout his life.