Beethoven

The Profile

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827) was a German composer and pianist whose work bridged the Classical and Romantic eras. He wrote nine symphonies, landmark concertos, string quartets, piano sonatas including the ‘Moonlight’, the opera Fidelio, and the Missa solemnis.

Pivotal figure in Western art music; German nationality; composer of nine symphonies and numerous chamber, piano, and orchestral works; only opera is Fidelio.

A single, glowing 5/5 review fixates on Beethoven’s Sixth Symphony—especially the tender eight-note idea of the ‘At the Brook’ movement—while poking fun at Fidelio and the Ninth’s mythology. The piece weighs Beethoven’s grand symphonic vision against intimate listening experience, with nods to Bach, Haydn, Mahler, and Haitink.