Ludwig van Beethoven
This great creator (1770-1827) was born in Bonn, Germany, in a family with deep musical traditions. However, he was not a prodigy, and his genius only began to emerge in his teens. W 1787 r. Beethoven was sent to Vienna, to perfect your musical craft under the wings of Mozart. The great master was delighted with his extraordinary improvisation skills, like his new apprentice.
After the death of his mother, Beethoven returned to Bonn, to be in age 21 years to go to Vienna with the intention of studying under Haydn. Ludwik was already a recognized pianist then, but he still had a lot to learn, to be able to become a composer. He studied vocal composition together with Antoni Salieri, imperial conductor. When, after an argument with other musicians, Beethoven threatened to leave Vienna, several notables offered him an annual salary of 4000 forints, but provided, that he would stay in the capital and make music. The composer agreed to this arrangement and lived in Vienna until his death, changing the address at least 60 times.
At the age of 30 Years Beethoven began to lose his hearing, which made him deeply depressed. In the first phase of his illness, he developed and demonstrated his extraordinary musical improvisation skills. When he was completely deaf, ceased public appearances, that made him so famous. He composed much less, although according to many music experts it is precisely 10 the last years of his life were the best period of his work. At that time, the Ninth Symphony was written (ending with a majestic Ode to Joy), one of Beethoven's greatest and most famous works.
In many of the composer's works, one can find inspiration from the sub-Viennese landscape (np. in the Pastoral Symphony with 1808 r.). Apart from numerous symphonies, concerts, works for string quartets, piano sonatas, masses and overtures, Beethoven also created one opera – Fidelio (1814 r.).
Beethoven never married, but as is evident from his letters, he had intended to do so at least three times. Nothing unusual, because he was adored by women all his life, despite its often not well-groomed appearance. He died at the age of 57 years of cirrhosis of the liver, and more than 20 thousand. people.