The Beethoven 9

Symphony No. 2: Desperation and Determination

The Beethoven 9

Show Notes

Ludwig van Beethoven's Second Symphony came at a pivot point in his life. Musically, the composer moved toward the more epic, revolutionary style that would define his later symphonies. Personally, Beethoven sank into despair as his hearing loss worsened.

More from The Beethoven 9

Dec 3, 2015

Its power and sheer ambition influenced and intimidated scores of composers who followed Beethoven.

Nov 25, 2015

A fun, almost comical, moment before Beethoven stepped away from the symphony for a decade and wrote his ultimate triumph.

Nov 20, 2015

Ludwig van Beethoven's Seventh Symphony pulses with rhythmic invention. The reliance on the beat gives the piece an immediacy that rivals the music in any of Beethoven's symphonies.

Nov 13, 2015

Ludwig van Beethoven followed his percussive, brooding Fifth Symphony with an ode to nature. Yet Symphony No. 6 is more than just a summer stroll.

Nov 7, 2015

It's one of the most famous musical passages ever written. Ludwig van Beethoven starts his Fifth Symphony with four percussive notes, then spends the next four movements inventing new ways to make them sing.

See all episodes →