Karlheinz Stockhausen was a German composer known for his pioneering work in electronic music and avant-garde compositions. Born in 1928, he played a significant role in the development of modern music, experimenting with new sounds and structures. His innovative approach often involved the use of technology, including tape music and live electronics, which influenced many contemporary composers. Stockhausen's compositions, such as Gesang der Jünglinge and Kontakte, challenged traditional musical forms and explored spatialization and the relationship between sound and silence. He was also known for his operas, including Licht, a cycle of seven operas that reflect his unique vision of music and spirituality.