Happy Birthday Ludwig

Today is the high holy day for little Schroeder, the piano playing denizen of the "Peanuts" cartoons. Yes it is Beethoven's birthday; good ol' Ludwig Van turns 236 today. We think. His exact birthdate was not recorded, but he was baptized on December 17th so this date has been traditionally celebrated. Some think it was more likely the 15th or even earlier. But since we have no definitive proof, we'll just accept the date as today. Schroeder would approve.



No other composer's music reaches out, grabs you and shakes you quite the way Beethoven's does. He also had an amazing ability to make the most simple passage monumental in its impact. Unlike Mozart, he revolutionized music, took the symphony to new heights and perfected the string quartet and solo sonata.

I haven't decided what to listen to later to honor him, there are plenty of options. I am leaning toward my favorite Symphony the 7th or the incredible String Quartet op 131.

Happy Birthday Ludwig!