Ludwig van Beethoven

Ludwig van Beethoven was one of the great composers of the Classical period. He became deaf in his 20s (some books say in his 30s) but continued to compose music that is still much appreciated to this day. He wrote "Symphony No. 2, op. 36 (D Major)," Symphony No. 3 Eroica, op. 55 (E flat Major)," "Symphony No. 4, op. 60 (B flat Major)" and other great masterpieces when he was almost completely deaf. Whenever I listen to Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata" I can't help but feel melancholy; that is how powerfully expressive Beethoven's music is.

Music Education in the News: Keith White is the new music director of the University of Central Oklahoma's School of Music.

This Day in Music History: 1957 - Patsy Cline's self-titled debut album was released.