Autour de Jean-Sébastien Bach at Théâtre du Châtelet, Paris

He studied composition with Jean-Baptiste Lully, often conducting his operas, and with the master of the bass viol Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe for six months.

Since the late 1970s, Pärt has worked in a minimalist style that employs tintinnabuli, a compositional technique he invented. Pärt's music is in part inspired by Gregorian chant.

Dessner's twin brother, Aaron, is also a member of the group. Together, they write the music in collaboration with lead singer and lyricist Matt Berninger.

He is best known for his pioneering contributions to ambient music and electronica, and for producing, recording, and writing works in rock and pop music.