Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
Beethoven is one of the most significant and influential composers of the western art music tradition. He was a ground-breaker, in all senses. He oversaw the transition of music from the Classical style, full of poise and balance, to the Romantic style, characterized by emotion and impact.
A prolific composer who wrote for wealthy patrons and also earned money from public concerts, he wrote nine symphonies, 32 piano sonatas, one opera, five piano concertos, and many chamber works including some ground-breaking string quartets. He could be a difficult and unsociable man, who felt bitter and isolated by the deafness which developed in his 20s; he never married.
He enjoyed great success and recognition in his lifetime. It is said that at the premiere of his 9th Symphony, he could not hear the thunderous applause at the end, and had to be turned round to see the delighted audience reaction.
Virtually all his major works are standard repertoire pieces, familiar to musicians and listeners throughout the commercial world.

Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 "Emperor"
Beethoven: Triple Concerto
Russian Federal Orchestra
Vakhtang Jordania (conductor)
Alexander Trostiansky (violin)
Kirill Rodin (cello)
Tatsuya Nagashima (piano)
*Production in process (recording completed)