Ludwig van Beethoven

The Great Innovator

Ludwig van

Beethoven

When?

December 16 1770

March 26 1827, age 56

Where?

Bonn, Germany

Beethoven was a

Romantic

composer.

Beethoven is one of the greatest classical composers of all time. But he definitely had his challenges. As a boy, his father was very strict and would wake Beethoven up in the middle of the night and make him play piano for him.

Another challenge was Beethoven was writing in a new style that many people didn’t understand or didn’t like. It was more emotional and had sudden changes in tempo and dynamics and from major to minor.

But his biggest chance was losing his hearing. Over time, he became almost completely deaf. Imagine trying to write music for a huge orchestra without being able to hear?

Because of everything he went through, Beethoven’s music is filled with strong emotions. Sometimes it sounds like an angry storm crashing around you. Other times it feels calm and peaceful, like a quiet walk through the countryside.

Beethoven proved that even if you have challenges, you can overcome them and do amazing things!

Fun Facts

Both Maestros

Standing Ovation

After Beethoven conducted the first performance of his Ninth Symphony, the audience was on its feet clapping, but Beethoven couldn’t hear them, so a singer had to turn him around so he could see the audience cheering.

Both Maestros

A Very Particular Human Bean

Beethoven was extremely particular about his coffee—he reportedly counted exactly 60 coffee beans per cup every time he made it.

Both Maestros

Ludwig, Clean Up Your Room!

Beethoven had a reputation for being messy and also forgetful. His apartment was often cluttered and disordered. Sometimes poured water over his head while composing, which would soak the floor!

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