TOP 10 'Beethoven Bio Bits'

In honor of the upcoming (April 1-10)Phoenix Symphony Beethoven performances...

Here is a list of interesting and fun facts that you may not have known about one of the greatest musicians/composers to ever walk this Earth!

1. Began performing at age 7.
2. Never married, but had an unknown "Immortal Beloved."
3. Symphony No. 3 (Sinfonia Eroica) was originially titled Bonaparte but changed it when Napoleon Bonaparte proclaimed himself Emperor!
4. Beethoven literally translates to  "beetroot farm."
5. In the 1802 Heiligenstadt Testament, Beethoven wrote that he wanted to die, but ART is what kept him alive. This letter was meant for his brother but he never sent it and kept it with him his whole life.
6. Beethoven's music was a bridge between the Classical and Romantic music eras.
7. Besides the piano, Beethoven was skilled at the violin and organ.
8. His first sonata was published at only age 13!
9. Beethoven received his inspiration by taking long walks in the country.
10. His first name, Ludwig, translates to "famous warrior."

To see another Beethoven List, please visit the site to reserve your seats to watch The Phoenix Symphony perform pieces from the "Famous Warrior Beetroom Farm" (Ludwig van Beethoven)!