Beethoven: His Life, Music, and Legacy 200 Years Later
Few composers have had as profound and lasting an influence as Ludwig van Beethoven. In 2027, the musical world will mark the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s death. This three-part lecture series, presented by Dr. Derek Cooper, explores Beethoven’s life and music across three major periods, placing his work in the broader political, cultural, and artistic context of his time.
Lecture 1: 1770–1802 – The Early Period, Wednesday, February 10, 2027, 11:oo am – 12:15 pm
Learn about Beethoven’s upbringing, his turbulent relationship with his father, his move to Vienna, his studies with Haydn, and the early sonatas and symphonies that began to establish his voice as a composer.
Other Lectures in the Series:
Lecture 2: 1802–1814 – The Heroic Period, Wednesday, March 10, 2027, 11:00 am – 12:15 pm
Explore the significance of the Heiligenstadt Testament and Beethoven’s emergence as a newly determined and revolutionary composer. Highlights include Symphony Nos. 3, 5, and 7; his opera Fidelio; and the Appassionata Sonata.
Lecture 3: 1814–1827 – The Late Period, Wednesday, April 14, 2027, 11:00 am – 12:15 pm
Examine Beethoven’s struggle with deafness, his changing place in society, and the extraordinary works of his final years, including Symphony No. 9 and the late string quartets. This lecture will also consider the powerful legacy Beethoven left for generations of composers and listeners.
Lectures are $40 each. Enroll in these three lectures and the Music Springs to Life – a celebration of the beauty and promise of springtime in music, on Wednesday, May 12, 2027, 11:00 am – 12:15 pm, and receive a $10 discount.
