Ludwig van Beethoven's Milestones

Ludwig van Beethoven was a German composer and pianist whose masterpieces, including Symphony No. 9, bridged the Classical and Romantic eras, composing much of his work after becoming deaf.
1770

Birth

Ludwig van Beethoven was baptized in Bonn, Germany, to Johann van Beethoven and Maria Magdalena Keverich.

Family December 17, 1770
1778

Early musical training

Received rigorous musical training from his father and local musicians.

Education January 1, 1778 - March 1, 1787

First public performance

Gave his first public piano performance at age 7.

Achievement March 26, 1778
1784

Appointed court organist

Appointed assistant court organist in Bonn, gaining early professional experience.

Career January 1, 1784 - November 10, 1792
1787

Met Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Traveled to Vienna and reportedly met Mozart, who was impressed by his talent.

Relationship April 1, 1787 - May 1, 1787

Mother's death

His mother died, deeply affecting him and his family.

Family July 17, 1787
1792

Moved to Vienna

Moved to Vienna to study with Joseph Haydn and pursue a musical career.

Location November 10, 1792
1795

First major compositions

Published first works and performed as a virtuoso pianist in Vienna.

Achievement March 29, 1795 - April 2, 1800
1798

Deafness begins

Began losing his hearing, eventually becoming almost completely deaf.

Other January 1, 1798 - January 1, 1814
1800

First symphony premiered

Premiered his First Symphony in Vienna.

Achievement April 2, 1800
1802

Heiligenstadt Testament

Wrote the Heiligenstadt Testament, expressing despair over his increasing deafness.

Other October 6, 1802
1805

'Fidelio' premiered

Premiered his only opera, 'Fidelio,' in Vienna.

Achievement November 20, 1805
1824

Premiered Symphony No. 9

Premiered his Ninth Symphony, including the 'Ode to Joy.'

Achievement May 7, 1824
1825

Composed late string quartets

Composed his celebrated late string quartets, considered masterpieces.

Achievement January 1, 1825 - December 31, 1826
1827

Death

Beethoven died in Vienna, leaving a profound legacy in music.

Other March 26, 1827