Hovhaness often composed nocturnally. In childhood this was somewhat out of necessity, as his parents apparently disapproved of his composing. Later in life he found he could compose for hours without any interruption. He would then retire to bed around sunrise and rise early afternoon.

Photograph: William Gedney, by permission of the William Gedney Collection, Duke University Rare Book, Manuscript, and Special Collections Library. Picture researcher: David Badagnani