Beethoven At 250

December 16, 2020 marked the sester-centennial of the birth of the most iconic of classical composers, Ludwig van Beethoven. Despite being toxically irascible (he had severe health problems for most of his life, in addition to his deafness), Beethoven created soaring, inspirational, life-affirming, and supremely innovative compositions that ushered in the Romantic era of classical music.

These works of genius remain beloved today, perhaps even more so than they were during his lifetime, which was brought to its unhappy conclusion by cirrhosis of the liver. With a Greenwich Library card, you to listen to virtually everything Beethoven composed.

You can stream his works to your computer or portable device for free using two of our subscription databases: Naxos Music Library and Hoopla. Both offer a wealth of music by Beethoven, with the former providing biographical material and study guides in addition to the recorded music. They may be the perfect antidote to social distancing and the other restrictions we are all confronting.

  • Interested in reading more about Beethoven, his legacy, and his life? Check out this list of eBooks available in Libby.
  • Interested in hearing more of Beethoven’s music? Check out this list of Downloadable Music available from Hoopla.

Why not try to find other unique Beethoven references located in Greenwich?

  • Click the following link: Historical Greenwich Newspaper Collection
  • Select “remote access”
  • Enter your library barcode #
  • Explore the single search bar or use the filters to locate fully digitized images of the Greenwich Time from 1877-current [Internet Explorer is recommended]

Greenwich Library staff are some of the most prolific readers in our community and are always looking to share their recommendations, no matter the genre. Looking for titles based on category? Check out what our librarians are reading and loving here: greenwichlibrary.org/staff-picks. Or, get personalized recommendations based on your reading tastes here: greenwichlibrary.org/forms/personalized-reading-recommendations.

Get the latest about Library book releases and staff picks sent to your email: greenwichlibrary.org/enews.

Questions? Contact:
Greenwich Library
(203) 622-7900
info@greenwichlibrary.org