Ludwig van Beethoven was a german composer born on December 17, 1770. He was an innovator, widening the scope of sonata, symphony, concerto, and quartet, and combining vocals and instruments in a new way.
He is most famous four in nine symphony's. One of his most famous is Symphony N. 5 (bio.com). In his formal layout of his movements he introduces the concept of drama. As a narrative element he introduces the concept of primal, almost rock 'n' roll-like rhythm. Critics say, "he decrees that music must, above all, be self-expression" (bio.com). Symphony N. 5 is an example of a romantic piece. Critics say that is symphony's "were revolutionary on every level: harmonic, melodic, rhythmic, and emotional. Beethoven led the charge to a totally new era. He threw out the restraint of 18th-century classicism and ushered in romantic self-expression. His symphonic offspring were the first statesmen of his new, musical democracy" (thegreatcourses).
