Ludwig van
Beethoven: a pivotal figure in music history. But why? We cannot properly
discuss the historical development of the symphony without mentioning Beethoven
and his contributions to the music world.
Beethoven lived
during a period of change and struggle. The French Revolution, Industrial
Revolution, and the Age of Enlightenment are all things that may have
influenced the composer and his work. With various changes in society came
changes in music. Beethoven’s personal life exhibited its own sense of struggle
as he fought deafness. Fighting to overcome this trial, Beethoven reflects this
will to overcome in his Symphony No. 3, known as the “Heroic Symphony.”
Beethoven’s
symphonic output expanded the length of the symphony as well as the size of the
orchestra. His scores often times called for piccolo, trombone, and extra
percussion and strings in comparison with composers of the classical period.
His most
triumphant and influential work is the Symphony No. 9. Using a chorus in the
final movement, Beethoven used Schiller’s Ode
to Joy as the text. The grandeur, emotional complexity, and innovativeness
of this piece are what make it memorable. Nothing like the Symphony No. 9 had
ever been created and, in my opinion, nothing like it has been created since.
Beethoven raised the bar high for symphonic composers who followed him, making
it difficult to expand on his accomplishment.
You can listen to
Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 here. It’s a long one so hang tight! After you
finish listening, let me know your thoughts. Can you see how this piece is
known as a pivotal point in music history?
