Beethoven is a crucial figure of classical music in Classicism and Romanticism, one of the most performed composers in the world. Although Beethoven lived half of his life in the 18th century, he is a new age composer. A witness to the great upheavals that redrawn the map of Europe — the French Revolution of 1789, the Napoleonic Wars, the Restoration era-he reflected in his work, primarily symphonic, grandiose upheavals. None of the composers could so powerfully embody in music the images of the heroic struggle — not of one person, but an entire nation, of all humankind. Like no other musician before him, Beethoven was interested in politics, social events. In his youth, he was fond of the ideas of freedom, equality, fraternity and remained faithful to them until the end of his days.
Beethoven was born into a family of musicians and from early childhood was taught to play various musical instruments, such as the harpsichord, organ, flute, and violin. The beginning of his creative career was playing in an orchestra, later, he met his teacher Haydn and moved to Vienna. Haydn briefly noted that Beethoven’s music was dark and strange. However, in those years, the virtuoso piano playing brings Ludwig his first fame. Beethoven’s works differ from the classical harpsichord playing. In Vienna, famous works were written in the future Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata”, “Pathetique Sonata”.
The development of ear disease-tinnitus complicated Beethoven’s later life and work. The composer retreats to the city of Heiligenstadt, where he works on the Third-Heroic Symphony. Complete deafness separates Ludwig from the outside world. However, even this event can not make him stop composing. In 1802-1812, Beethoven wrote sonatas with a great desire and zeal. At that time, the whole series of works for piano, cello, the famous Ninth Symphony, and the Solemn Mass were created. Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony became a source of inspiration for subsequent composers and a cornerstone of the romantic movement of the 19th century (UDiscover Team). The biography of Ludwig Beethoven of those years was filled with fame, popularity and recognition. However, strong feelings for his nephew, whom Beethoven took into care, quickly aged the composer, and he died of liver disease.
Beethoven was wholly immersed in his work, and he was not concerned with external events, generally accepted manners of behavior, even his own appearance. There are many stories about the composer’s reverence for his music. For example, when someone started talking during one of his performances, Beethoven stopped playing, called the audience names, and refused to play anymore, despite all the persuasions and requests.
The composer created nine symphonies, 11 overtures, five concertos for piano and orchestra, a violin concerto, two masses, and one opera. Beethoven was received and continued by composers Hector Berlioz, Franz Liszt, Johannes Brahms, Anton Bruckner, Gustav Mahler, Sergei Prokofiev, Dmitry Shostakovich. The composers of the Novovensky school — Arnold Schoenberg, Alban Berg, Anton Webern also honored Beethoven as their teacher. Beethoven gave people unique works of classical instrumental music and became a teacher and example for many classicists and romanticists. He had an incredible talent, as evidenced by a large number of fans, and at present, he is still popular not only among adults but also among children. The composer has more than one hundred monuments worldwide, which also speaks of his recognition as the most extraordinary talent.
In conclusion, Beethoven was the greatest composer of the 18th century and still has a place for his talent in modern society. Being completely deaf, he continued to write incredible works of musical art and give them to people. Unfortunately, he could never restore his hearing, which later did not allow him to write more impressive pieces. Beethoven worked in all genres known to music, from chamber music to theater. Each of his symphonies is recognizable and often performed on world stages.
Reference
“Best Beethoven Works: 10 Essential Pieces By The Great Composer.” UDiscover music, 2020. Web.