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Ludwig Van Beethoven.

Beethoven, who is said to be the greatest orchestral composer of the 19th century, was born in Bonn, Germany, in December 1770. He is buried in the Central cemetery in Vienna.

Beethoven's life was sad and tragic. His father was a worthless drunkard who seemed to care for nothing but drink and carousing. The family lived in poverty and want.

When little Ludwig was five years old, his father realized that the boy had musical talent. The lad was forced to practice long hours, play in taverns and elsewhere so that the father might have more money for drink.

After his father died Beethoven went to Vienna where he was worried by two of his brothers and a spendthrift nephew. He wanted a wife and a home but none of his love affairs resulted in marriage. He lived a very lonely life.

Beethoven became deaf when only 28 years old. This seemed like a terrible afflication to a musician. He wrote about that time.

"Forgive me then if you see me turn away when I would gladly mix with you. For me there is no recreation in human intercourse, no conversation, no sweet interchange of thought. In solitary exile I am compelled to live. When I approach strangers a feverish fear takes possession of me, for I know that I will be misunderstood.--But O God, Thou lookest down upon my inward soul! Thou knowest, and Thou seest that love for my fellowmen, and all kindly feeling have their abode here. Patience! I amy get better--I may not--but I will endure all until Death shall claim me, and then joyously will I go!"

His deafness increased until he was totally deaf but he did not give up. He wrote when he realized that his affliction was permanent.

"There is no greater joy for me than to pursue and produce my art.--Oh, if I were only rid of this affliction I could embrace the world!--- I will seize fate by the throat; most assuredly it shall not get me wholly down--?

Beethoven mastered his affliction and composed sublime music for the world. We have a pebble from the yard of his birthplace, a seal made by his signet ring and mementos from the muscian's circle in the Central cemetery in Vienna where so many wonderful composers are buried.

[Black and white photograph of an interior room featuring a grandfather clock and ornate staircase]
Hausflur des Beethoven-hauses mit dem Durchblick in den Hof und das Hausgartchen.