Beethoven: The Man Revealed

Suchet, a musical scholar and British classical radio host, guides us along a detailed tour of Beethoven’s life, exploring not so much the music he created as his life—nearly 60 years of drama, love, and loss. From the imposing composer’s difficult early life in Bonn to his later fame (and occasional infamy) living in Vienna, Suchet offers a definitive, close look at the composer. Even those with cursory musical knowledge will appreciate the engaging narrative, beginning with Beethoven’s unknown birthday and ending with his slow death. Along the way, one can easily find oneself identifying with Beethoven, chuckling when he uses his virtuosic piano skills to dismantle rivals, cheering when his utter genius is wholly recognized, and weeping with him when he is heartbroken and suicidal. Suchet displays great skill as a storyteller-historian, crafting an engrossing biography that explores every part of Beethoven’s personal life—a story that includes a love affair as passionate as it is mysterious and a bitter custody battle with his sister-in-law that unveils Beethoven at his most despicable. (Jan.)