In Search of Beethoven
Excellent ‘short; biography of Beethoven by a music lover who has written a 3 volume biography of Beethoven. This reads more like a novel or travelogue than a typical biography. Mr. Suchet is obviously a music and Beethoven lover. He travels to various cities in Europe that were important in Beethoven’s life as he describes to him, from his birthplace in Bonn to his death in Vienna. Along the way we learn of his poor relationships with his family, his total deafness by the age of 30, his difficulties with sponsors, and his inability to get along with almost everyone. He decribes many of Beethoven’s compositions in the order in which they were written and how they were received at the time. It inspired me to to replay cd’s and review scores of his music. Music students of all ages, including young prople, music lovers, and the curious of all ages will enjoy this book.

Ludwig van Beethoven is in the background of all our lives ; some of his musical compositions although not necessarily named will be identifiable by many whether from radio, television or film.

As for the life of Beethoven’ knowing he was a prolific composer and became deaf is about the average knowledge.
John Suchet is an expert on Beethoven and In Search of Beethoven is the perfect read to understand Beethoven’s life and intriguing character.

Mr Suchet has written a biography / personal travelogue as he makes a personal journey to the key places in Beethoven’s Austrian life and recounts key events.

This is a book for a novice ( like myself) wanting to learn more - the prose is highly accessible and Beethoven’s life and mindset is explored in an accessible way.-highly readable and not stuffy.

Mr Suchet weaves personal life stories within the text which another layer to the book.

A fascinating book about one of history’s larger than life characters.
Highly recommended.