Robert Ashley was an American composer and opera director known for his innovative approach to music and sound. Active primarily in the avant-garde and experimental genres, Ashley's work often blended elements of opera, spoken word, and electronic music. He gained recognition for his unique operas, including "Perfect Lives," which was notable for its use of television as a medium. Ashley's compositions frequently explored themes of language, communication, and the complexities of human experience, earning him a distinctive place in contemporary music. His influence continues to resonate within the realms of experimental music and performance art.