Cooper Hewitt says...
Ludwig van Beethoven was a German composer and pianist. He is considered to be one of the greatest composers of all time, and his compositions helped mark the transition between the classical and romantic eras of classical music. Born in Bonn where he was taught by his father (Johann van Beethoven), his musical talent was evident at a very early age. He moved to Vienna at the age of 21, studying with Joseph Haydn. His reputation grew while in Vienna, and he was soon being courted by royal and courtly patrons. In the early 1800s, his hearing began to deteriorate, and continued to such an extent that he refused to perform or appear in public. It was during this time that he produced many of the works for which he is best known. Scholars divide his career into “early” (until 1802), “middle” (1802–1812) and “late” (1812–1827). He composed nine symphonies, five piano concertos, one violin concerto, thirty-two piano sonatas, sixteen string quartets, two masses, and one opera. Other works were also discovered after his death. His legacy is characterized by his innovative compositions, contributions to classical music, and his temperamental personality.
