Beethoven's early life
Ludwig van Beethoven was born on December 16, 1770, in Bonn, Germany. His father, Johann van Beethoven, was a musician in the court of the Elector of Cologne. His mother, Maria Magdalena Keverich, was the daughter of a cook. Beethoven showed musical talent at an early age, and he began studying music with his father at the age of four.
Beethoven's career
Beethoven's career as a composer began in the late 1790s. He moved to Vienna in 1792 to study with Joseph Haydn. Beethoven quickly became one of the most popular composers in Vienna. He wrote music for the piano, the orchestra, and the opera. Beethoven's music is known for its emotional power, its technical virtuosity, and its innovative use of harmony and rhythm.
Beethoven's later life
In 1802, Beethoven began to lose his hearing. His deafness gradually became worse, and he was eventually completely deaf. Beethoven continued to compose music even after he became deaf. He used a special ear trumpet to help him hear the music in his head.
Beethoven died on March 26, 1827, in Vienna. He was 56 years old. Beethoven's music continues to be performed and enjoyed by people all over the world. He is considered to be one of the greatest composers in history.
Beethoven's most famous works
* Symphonies
* Symphony No. 3 (Eroica)
* Symphony No. 5
* Symphony No. 6 (Pastoral)
* Symphony No. 9 (Choral)
* Piano Concertos
* Piano Concerto No. 1
* Piano Concerto No. 3
* Piano Concerto No. 4
* Piano Concerto No. 5 (Emperor)
* Piano Sonatas
* Piano Sonata No. 8 (Pathétique)
* Piano Sonata No. 14 (Moonlight)
* Piano Sonata No. 23 (Appassionata)
* Piano Sonata No. 32 (Op. 111)
* Opera
* Fidelio