preview

There is Only One Ludwig van Beethoven

Decent Essays

“What you are, you are by accident of birth; what I am, I am by myself. There are and will be a thousand princes; there is only one Beethoven” Summing up the philosophy of the great composer, Ludwig van Beethoven, the quote also reflects of the time in which he lived. Beethoven firmly believed in the dignity of man and that one should live in complete freedom without limits. Looking into the three parts of his life, early, middle, and end, one will learn about the inner life of the great composer. During his early life, his musical capabilities shined through. Born in Bonn, Germany in 1770, his family life started out rough. His father, a court musician, struggled as a drunkard, leaving his young son to fend for himself. Although caring, Beethoven’s mother lived frail and sickly for the whole of her life. Although he began studying music at age 4, his lessons did not bring him joy. Often late at night, his dad would come home from patronizing local taverns and force the boy to learn music until dawn. Drinking excessively just seemed a natural part of his life. As a young child, he often battled depression, which one can understand why by simply looking at his home life. However, some noticed his skills and employed him as an organist. In 1787, at age 17, he traveled to Vienna and played for the great composer, Mozart who accurately predicted the future greatness of the young man. While in Italy, Beethoven received a call to return home to see his mother. Soon after

Get Access