The composer and pianist Ludwig van Beethoven (baptized 17 December 1770 – 26 March 1827) was born in Bonn (today Germany), but the family is rooted originally in the territories across the border, in modern day Belgium (Flemish territory). His grandfather, who had the same name, came to Bonn from the town of Mechelen, Austrian Duchy of Brabant at the time.
Beethoven’s name was pronounced different in his hometown Bonn and his chosen home as adult, Vienna. In Bonn Biet-hoffen was the way he had heard his name; in Vienna it was Be-toof-fen.
In phonetics his name is ethier beɪˌtəʊvən, or beɪtˌhəʊvən.
For Beethoven’s full biography click here!
Play this audio to hear the correct pronunciation!
