Ludwig van Beethoven was a German composer and pianist who is widely considered one of the greatest composers in history. He was born in 1770 in Bonn, Germany and spent much of his career in Vienna, where he composed symphonies, chamber music, and piano sonatas. Beethoven’s music is known for its emotional depth and innovation, and his works continue to be staples of the classical music repertoire. He continued to compose despite losing his hearing, and his later works are particularly celebrated for their complexity and profound expression. Beethoven died in 1827, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music that continues to inspire and move audiences around the world.