This December marks the 249th birthday of Ludwig van Beethoven, one of the most famous musicians and composers in history. Despite illness and poverty, Beethoven's artistic genius prevailed throughout his life and afterwards. Many musicians regard him as a composer that created a profound balance between the stoic classical music that preceded him and the new dramatic romanticism that was emerging while Beethoven himself was alive. In celebrations ongoing into 2020, the Chicago Symphony Center is hosting performances of Beethoven's works from his 32 piano sonatas to his nine symphonies to honor 250 years of his music. Though I urge you to step outside and listen to a live performance, you can also check out these albums from CPL's collection to get a taste for Beethoven while at home.
Read a short summary of Beethoven's life using CPL's Online Resources.
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