John Cage was born in Los Angeles, and studied music with Henry Cowell and Arnold Schonberg before becoming the musical director of the Merce Cunningham Dance Company. He is known for revolutionising the parameters in music, experimenting with everyday objects as his instruments and incorporating elements of chance into his compositions. He is created with conducing the first "happenings" at Black Mountain College, and is celebrated for his writings, poetry and work in the graphic arts arena. Lois Long was born in Clarksdale, MS. She studied design and taught at Pratt Institute, along with running a textile design firm. She and Cage also collaborated on Mushroom Book, in which they were able to indulge their lifelong interest in mushrooms.