Johann Sebastian Bach is a name often linked with Baroque Music, being one of the definitive composers of that era and one of the greatest of all time, it should come as no wonder that Bach came from a family that was heavily involved in music; he and his brothers were the 8th generation of musicians in the family, with a good number of his own children going on to dedicate their lives to music.
Several anecdotes seem to indicate Bach’s inclination towards restlessness: losing his patience and brawling with students, earning jailtime when he quit in frustration after missing a promotion, or attempting new employment due to annoyance with his employer’s wife. But it was a botched eye surgery, from the same surgeon who would go on to blind George Handel, that eventually took Bach’s life.
Beethoven, who is said to have received early influences by Bach was also known to have a strong temperament of his own. He frequently lost his patience when taking lessons from Joseph Hayden, with the two eventually getting on bad terms; would end performances mid-way if he was aware the audience was not giving him full attention; controlled critiques of his works by threatening editors; disliked teaching unless the students were attractive young women; and had a penchant for drinking heavily which might have exacerbated his ill health.
Nevertheless, Beethoven remains a beloved composer recognized for his musical genius and loyalty to friends, and 2020 marks his 250th birthday year.
Almost similar to Beethoven, Johannes Brahms was forced to play music from a young age to supplement his family’s income, had a fondness for drinking (visiting his favorite pub almost on a daily basis), and despite his brusque and disagreeable character, was known to have a loyal group of friends.
Most well-discussed of Brahms’ personal life is his close friendship with Robert Schumann and alleged deep affection for Clara Schumann with whom he remained friends with up till their respective deaths. Despite several romances in his life, Brahms’ reticence was said to have attributed to him never marrying a woman he loved. Notably, his conservative position against Liszt and Wagner’s progressive stance saw a schism that came to be known as the “War of the Romantics”.
German, quick-tempered, celebrated composer - it seems the 3Bs share more than just a common alphabet in their last name.
Learn more at below links
https://www.classicfm.com/composers
https://www.connollymusic.com/stringovation
https://www.mentalfloss.com/
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