Wolfgang Rihm, one of the most influential German composers of the post-World War II generation, died on Friday at the age of 72, his wife said. Born in the western German city of Karlsruhe, Rihm was one of the most frequently performed contemporary composers in Europe. He leaves behind an oeuvre of well over 500 works, including operas and large orchestral pieces, chamber music and music theatre. “We lost a true institution in the world of music. His works will endure,” said Minister of State for Culture Claudia Roth in a tribute to Rihm on Saturday. Rihm made his first attempts at composing …