Genomic analyses of hair from Beethoven – March 2023

Genomic analyses of hair from Beethoven

Yesterday, on March 22, 2023, in Current Biology a study was presented by a group of scientists. During their project they had analyzed eight different locks of hair that are known to come from the famous composer.   The eight locks of hair For the study eight different locks were involved coming from public and private collections. These locks are …

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Introduction to Beethoven’s Waldstein Piano Sonata

Introduction to Beethoven’s Waldstein Piano Sonata

Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 21 in C major, Op. 53 is one of the most important piano works from the composer. It was completed in his middle period in 1804 and in many ways surpasses his previous piano sonatas. The name Waldstein comes from its dedication to his friend and patron, Count Waldstein. Sometimes this sonata is also called as …

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Beethoven residences: Baden

Beethoven residences: Baden

Baden in German means baths and there are more Badens on the European continent. The one Beethoven visited so often is distinguished by the name Baden bei Wien, meaning Baden near Vienna. Today it is the capital of Baden District and located about 26 km south of Vienna. The area has 14 hot springs containing healthy minerals. Baden is surrounded …

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Beethoven anecdotes: a play of a shepherd.

Beethoven anecdotes: a play of a shepherd.

One morning in Baden, during the summer break of Beethoven, Ries showed up at his teacher to practice piano. As he approached the apartment overheard Beethoven playing and improvising on his piano. He was working on the sonata that later became famous as the Appassionata. When finally entered the room he found the master looking out from his window. “We …

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Beethoven anecdotes: a new march.

Beethoven anecdotes: a new march

One day Ferdinand Ries got a money making opportunity from his teacher and mentor, Beethoven. A wealthy couple, Count Johann Georg Browne and his wife, were looking for a piano player who could entertain them and their guests in Baden. They were enthusiasts and previously generous patrons of Beethoven. No wonder, Ries had to play Beethoven music all the time…. …

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Beethoven anecdotes: with a lady on a sofa.

Beethoven anecdotes: with a lady on a sofa.

One day Beethoven’s pupil (and friend) Ferdinand Ries showed up at Beethoven’s residence during his summer break in Baden. As he entered the room he found him sitting on the sofa with an attractive young lady. Ries thought to leave and give them privacy, but Beethoven asked him to stay and play something. He played a number of pieces from …

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