2023-07-01 19:37:34
When the artist created the musical works that made him transcend through history, he was already suffering from deafness. Discover the strategies used by Beethoven to become one of the benchmark musicians of classical music.
Last update : July 01, 2023
Despite her progressive hearing loss, Beethoven found in music a unique and powerful form of communication. His creative audacity and tireless search for new sound compositions laid the foundations for the development of melodies that left an indelible mark.
In the progressive evolution of his condition, he used strategies that allowed him to keep the muse of composition alive. masterpieces like the Moonlight Sonatawhich plunges the listener into a landscape of mystery and melancholy, and the Ninth Symphonywith its universal anthem Ode to Joycontinue to resonate strongly in the present.
Beethoven’s challenge when composing
His state of deafness began to manifest around 1796, when he was 26 years old. However, this obstacle did not prevent him from continuing to create some of the most memorable works in classical music. As his hearing deteriorated, Beethoven became increasingly dependent on his inner instinct, having the ability to remember and work with music in his mind.
To this day, the cause of Beethoven’s deafness remains a controversial issue. Some suggest it could be the result of an autoimmune disease, like lupus, or an inflammatory disease, like sarcoidosis. However, surveys such as the one published in The Laryngoscope point out that his condition was caused by lead poisoning ; the composer liked to drink wine, and he would have drunk contaminated wine.
Despite the fact that Beethoven was deaf, this did not represent an obstacle to developing his musical gifts. Some of his most recognized works, such as Symphony no. 9were composed when he had already lost most of his hearing. From 1819, Beethoven no longer heard anythingand he still managed to create music.
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Beyond the Ears: The Strategies Beethoven Used to Compose
Despite being deaf, Beethoven used strategies to continue composing music, which we share with you below.
A special hearing aid
Beethoven used a device, in the form of a metal tube, which he placed on his piano. In doing so, the composer could feel the vibrations of the music in his body.
Sometimes he also used a wooden rod which he gripped at one end with his teeth and played on the piano soundboard at the other end to better feel the sound. A 2018 investigation found that these devices didn’t help much, since her problem was sensorineural and non-conductive.
A piano without a stand
In an attempt to feel the vibrations of the music more directly, Beethoven cut off the legs of his piano in order to place it directly on the floor. In doing so, he could better feel the vibrations of the music. This tactic allowed him to have a physical perception of what he was creating.
Composition by internal audition
Beethoven had the ability to listen to and work with music in his mind. Despite his deafness, he could imagine what the music he was composing would sound like.
This skill, known as “inner hearing,” is one that many musicians develop. But in his case, it became an essential tool in the songwriting process.
Great knowledge in music theory
Beethoven had a deep understanding of music theory. This knowledge allowed him to understand how the different notes worked together. and how the compositions were structured.
Imagination of the sound of different instruments and different notes
Despite his deafness, Beethoven had a remarkable memory for instruments and notes. He could remember and imagine the sound of each devicewhich allowed him to compose orchestral music on a large scale.
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Beethoven’s deafness led him to isolation
As Beethoven struggled with increasing deafness, he also experienced increasing isolation. Hearing loss affected his ability to communicate with others and fully enjoy music.
This deafness cut him off from society and deepened his sense of loneliness. In a letter written to his brothers Carl and Johann in 1802, Beethoven confesses:
For the past two years, I’ve been avoiding almost all social gatherings because I can’t tell people “I’m deaf”. If I had another profession, it would be easier, but in my profession, it’s a horrible state.
~Letter from Beethoven to his brothers~
However, despite these difficulties, Beethoven found a means of escape and expression in music, using his art to transcend physical and emotional barriers. His legacy has endured over timeinspiring generations of musicians and listeners.
His compositions have even been performed on countless stages around the world, bringing his message of resilience to people of all cultures and times.
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