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Composer of the Week - Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) - 1809

Logo for Composer of the Week - Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) - 1809

In 1809 when Napoleon invaded Vienna, the entire nobility fled the city, including one of Beethoven's most important patrons, Archduke Rudolph. Beethoven composed two works for Rudolph that year, the Les Adieux Piano Sonata - a touching souvenir of his friend's temporary exile, and the majestic Emperor Piano Concerto. Donald Macleod explores key music and events of Beethoven's year.