Beethoven

Author: (German) Beethoven
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-04-01
Features: Beethoven (1770–1827) was born in Bonn and learned to play the piano from a young age. In 1787, he traveled to Vienna to study composition with Haydn and met Mozart. Beethoven lived during the time of the French Revolution, the Napoleonic Wars, and the Vienna System, when European democracy and national consciousness were on the rise. His works reflect the characteristics of these eras, celebrating heroes, opposing feudalism, and striving for democracy, freedom, and a better future. His major works include the "Moonlight" Sonata, the "Appassionata" Sonata, the "Fate" Symphony (also known as Symphony No. 5), and the "Choral" Symphony (also known as Symphony No. 9). Beethoven's later years were tragic, and he died in poverty and illness. However, the people did not forget him. On March 29, 1827, over 2,000 people attended his funeral procession. Beethoven's most important contribution to music is the symphony, which is why he is hailed as the "King of Symphonies."