The Genius of Beethoven

The Genius of Beethoven is a dramatized documentary presented by Charles Hazlewood, about the life and music of Ludwig van Beethoven. The series consists of three episodes; the first episode charts his turbulent early years as a pianist and composer in Vienna; the second episode explores the music of Beethoven's creative middle years; and the last episode features Beethoven's works composed when he was deaf.

Episode 1: The Rebel

This first episode looks at Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata and 2nd Symphony, and charts his turbulent early years as a pianist and composer in Vienna, after having rejected his abusive alcoholic father.

Episode 2: Love and Loss

The music of Beethoven's creative middle years is explored, alongside the dramatised recollections of his family and friends. In this period he wrote five symphonies, four concertos, and his only opera - Fidelio.

Episode 3: Faith and Fury

Beethoven again revolutionises musical composition with works such as the Hammerklavier Sonata, the Missa Solemnis, the 9th Symphony and the baffling late string quartets - all composed when he was profoundly deaf.

Related Links:
In Search of Beethoven