Operas:
* "Private Parts" (1971): A groundbreaking opera that explored themes of sexuality and identity.
* "Perfect Lives" (1981): Ashley's most famous opera, which is a meditation on memory, technology, and human connection.
* "The Wolfman" (1984): An operatic response to Universal Studios' monster movies.
* "Hymn" (1989): A large-scale opera commissioned by the Spoleto Festival USA.
* "Celestial Excursions" (1997): A collaborative opera with composer John Cage.
Other Works:
* "Music with Roots in the Ground" (1973): A work for tape and live performers.
* "The Old Timer" (1975): A radio opera.
* "The End of the Line" (1981): A film score.
* "Automatic Writing" (1984): A series of compositions for tape.
* "The Unseen" (1986): A work for voice and tape.
Ashley's music is characterized by its use of extended vocal techniques, minimalist structures, and a focus on the sonic qualities of the human voice. He was a highly influential figure in the development of contemporary opera and experimental music.