LLMT 434 - Beethoven: The Man and his Music

Ludwig van Beethoven has been described as the colossus who bridged the gap between the classical and romantic periods of music. But with regard to his life, what is myth, and what is legend? New information sheds light on the possible cause of his deafness, and puts to rest some prior ideas. Was he a genius? How did his deafness affect his ability to compose or affect him as a man? We will address these and other questions as we listen to symphonies, string quartets, and sonatas that had a pivotal impact on music history. Be prepared to arrive at new and surprising considerations, and by so doing, to develop an increased ability to listen to and appreciate the music of Beethoven as well as the music of the entire Romantic period.