Beethoven: A Life in Nine Pieces

'We are doubly blessed that Beethoven should have led such an extraordinary life. Laura has combined the two - the genius of his music and the richness of his experiences - to shine a revealing light on our greatest composer' - John Humphrys

Ludwig van Beethoven: to some, simply the greatest ever composer of Western classical music. Yet his life remains shrouded in myths. In Beethoven, Oxford professor Laura Tunbridge cuts through the noise. With each chapter focusing on a period of his life, a piece of music, and a revealing theme - from family to friends, from heroism to liberty - she provides a rich insight into the man and the music. Revealing a wealth of never-before-seen material, this tour de force is a compelling, accessible portrayal of one of the world's most creative minds, and it will transform how you listen forever.

'Tunbridge has come up with the seemingly impossible: a new way of approaching Beethoven's life and music . . . profoundly original and hugely readable' - John Suchet, author of Beethoven: The Man Revealed

'This well-researched and accessible book is a must-read for all who seek to know more about the flesh and blood tangible Beethoven.' - John Clubbe, author of Beethoven: The Relentless Revolutionary

'This book is really wonderful! ... However many books on Beethoven you own, find the space for one more. This one' - Stephen Hough, pianist, composer, writer

'In a year when everyone's looking for a new take on Beethoven, Laura Tunbridge has found nine. Fresh and engaging' - Norman Lebrecht, author of Genius and Anxiety

'Remarkable . . . she captures the essence of his genius and character. I'll always want to keep it in easy reach' - Julia Boyd, author of Travellers in the Third Reich