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Beethoven's compositional method

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827) was a German composer in the transition between the classical and romantic period. He composed in many different genres including nine symphonies, five piano

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827) was a German composer in the transition between the classical and romantic period. He composed in many different genres including nine symphonies, five piano concertos, and a violin concerto. Process Beethoven’s process of composition changed over the course of his career. Many scholars divide his career into three main time periods; the early, middle, and late period. During the early period (ended in 1802) the driving force behind his compositions was his desire to master the Viennese style of composition. He was strongly inspired by Mozart and Haydn during this period, but he also wanted to create his own individual style and not merely emulate his predecessors. It was also the start of his hearing loss. By the final period, he was completely deaf. When his hearing was only mildly impaired, he would use ear trumpets to compose at the piano. He would also use a wooden stick between his teeth to feel the vibrations when he played. The sketches do not dictate how audiences should interpret or experience the piece. However, they do reveal information about Beethoven himself and act more as a bibliographic aid rather than an analytical tool. Beethoven