Ludwig van Beethoven

Ludwig van Beethoven, born in Bonn, Germany, was a revolutionary composer and pianist. He bridged the Classical and Romantic eras, known for his dramatic and emotional style. Despite profound deafness, he composed iconic works like the 'Moonlight' Sonata and Symphonies No. 5 and 9 ('Ode to Joy'). His masterpieces expanded musical forms, making him one of history's greatest.