Ludwig van Beethoven, who was born in Bonn on December 17, 1770 and died in Vienna on March 26, 1827, is one of the most important composers in the history of music. His works revolutionized classical music and ushered in the transition to Romanticism. He was more than just a composer; he was a visionary who changed music forever. But how well do you really know the master? You can test your knowledge of the life and work of this exceptional talent with our Beethoven quiz!
Desire for more music quiz
One example of Beethoven’s musical poetry is the famous Piano Sonata No. 14. It is better known by another name, which we want you to find out in the Beethoven quiz. The title was not given to it by Beethoven himself, but only later by the critic Ludwig Rellstab, who compared the first movement of the sonata to the sight of moonlight over Lake Lucerne. The sonata is known for its melancholy, calm melody and is one of the most popular and most played piano pieces in the world. It shows how Beethoven managed to transform deep emotions and moods into music.
Another important work that is discussed in our Beethoven quiz is the 3rd Symphony. This symphony marked a turning point in Beethoven’s career and in music history. Originally dedicated to Napoleon Bonaparte, Beethoven withdrew the dedication after Napoleon crowned himself emperor. For Beethoven, the 3rd Symphony stood for freedom, equality and heroism – ideals that he no longer saw in Napoleon. Here, too, we are looking for the name under which the symphony became known.
Behind Beethoven’s success, however, lay a tragic fate. This illness was not only an enormous challenge for him as a musician, but also a reason for his growing isolation. Beethoven, who once enjoyed life to the full and loved to be in conversation, withdrew more and more. But he did not give up. On the contrary: some of his best works, including the 9th Symphony, were composed during this phase of his life.
Now it’s your turn: start our Beethoven quiz and show how much you know about the composer!
17. December 25, 13:30 – Isabell Slisz
