Why is Ludwig van Beethoven important?

Picture: Classic Fm

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) was born in Austria and even though his father wanted to present him as a child prodigy, he failed.  Beethoven is an important figure in music because of his ability to portray feeling into music.(Encyclopedia Britannica)

A lot of his music is still performed today as well as being used in commercials and shows. In order to make these more fun, here are some facts about Beethoven:

• His Symphony Number 9 (and last symphony) also known as the Ode to Joy is approx. 1 hour long. 
• What makes it special is the Finale of the symphony, where there is a choral part which is unique for this genre of music.
• The chorus is standing on stage for appr. 45 minutes before being able to actually perform. 
• This choral part is also used as the European Union’s national anthem.
• Have a listen HERE
•  Symphony No.5 is his most popular symphony. Have a listen HERE
•  His piano piece called Für Elize (For Elize) was believed to be  composed for one of his students called Elize. It turns out that this was actually composed for a lady called Therese that Beethoven wanted to marry!
• As he was getting older he was getting deaf. His music reflects this through the dark colours (i.e lower register on the piano) he uses. 
• This can be related to his sadness as well as the fact that lower notes have frequencies that can be easily heard by people with poor hearing.
• Have a listen HERE
• His Symphony No.3 - Eroica was inspired by The French Revolution and dedicated to Napoleon. 
• Beethoven admired him for his thoughts and as a leader. 
• When Napoleon changed his actions started conquering more land, Beethoven was so disappointed that erased Napoleon's name form the manuscript. 
• This is still visible in the original copy of the symphony.
• Have a listen HERE
• What makes Beethoven so special is his use of the Heroic in his music. Which is quite exceptional.

Interesting Fact:

• Beethoven never married and the only woman we know today that returned his love was Antonie Bretano. (Classic Fm)

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