Beethoven, A Life

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This new biography of Ludwig van Beethoven presents an unparalleled exploration of the composer's life and works, crafted by a distinguished conductor and scholar. With unique access to the archives at the Beethoven House in Bonn, Jan Caeyers intricately portrays Beethoven's troubled youth, mood swings, desires, relationships, and conflicts with family and friends. The narrative delves into the mysteries of his affair with the 'immortal beloved' and the dramatic saga of his deafness. Caeyers provides fresh insights into Beethoven's music, illustrating its evolution from skilled craftsmanship to artistic mastery. His command of extensive scholarship brings Beethoven's world to life through elegant prose, vivid musical descriptions, and a rich depiction of Bonn and Vienna, where Beethoven created and performed. The biography examines how historical and philosophical shifts influenced Beethoven's career and how his journey, in turn, transformed the music industry. Equal parts cultural history and engaging biography, this work reveals a multifaceted portrait of the musical genius who defined a style and became a cornerstone of Western art music.