Triumphs and sufferings define Beethoven’s personal and professional life. His brother Carl dies, Beethoven becomes foster parent to his nephew, all while his profound deafness challenges his ability to communicate with others. His final works,

The Personal Beethoven: Episode 4, Beethoven, Napoleon and Romanticism

Dec 7th, 2018 10m 53s

Beethoven’s world is changing. Napoleon’s rise to power creates in Beethoven an initial fascination that evolves into deep disillusionment. His relationship with orchestras and with the aristocracy continues to be challenged, but as a compos

The Personal Beethoven: Episode 3, Crisis and Conflict

Dec 6th, 2018 8m 47s

Beethoven faces a personal crisis. Michael explores a new theory on how Beethoven lost his hearing, and how he handled the resulting social isolation. Even with the support of his friends, Beethoven becomes increasingly frustrated and his m

The Personal Beethoven: Episode 2, The Young Conqueror in Vienna

Nov 9th, 2018 8m 15s

Mozart dies. Haydn reigns supreme and becomes Beethoven’s teacher. Or does he? Complicated relationship between teacher and pupil set the stage for Beethoven’s success in Vienna. Listen in as Michael discusses the influence of Haydn on Beet

The Personal Beethoven: Episode 1, Beethoven's Childhood

Nov 9th, 2018 13m 42s

What affect did Beethoven’s overbearing father have on his early musical development? Did Beethoven really play for Mozart? What was his relationship with his mother and brothers? Michael addresses these issues surrounding Beethoven’s child

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