Although Israeli performers are widely recognized in the international arena, serious music composed by Israeli composers is far less well known. Yet, throughout Israel's 55-year history to date, contemporary music has attained a remarkably dynamic, thriving impetus despite (and perhaps partly as a consequence of) the harsh realities of daily life. The works of four generations (and a rising fifth generation) of composers in all genres and instrumental combinations may still be known far less than they deserve across the world, yet the amount of new recordings, published studies and performances is encouraging evidence of increasing interest. This article-interview is intended to deepen appreciation of an important repertoire through an introduction to the music and ideas of one of the foremost Israeli composers, the Chicago-based Shulamit Ran, whose unique outlook is influenced by two cultures, those of Israel and America.