American composer. Born as the child of poor immigrants, he did not receive formal musical education. Utilizing the piano and organ he learned through private lessons, he played the piano in movie theaters and the organ in churches. Although he began composing relatively late, in 1932, he was a prolific composer. In 1941, he finally succeeded in winning the New York Critics' Circle Award for his Symphony No. 1. Creston's works, who authored Principles of Rhythm in 1964, are often rhythmic. Furthermore, his harmonies possess a rich texture.