Beethoven's music influenced by hearing loss

Ludwig van Beethoven’s compositions were shaped by his gradual deafness, according to researchers from the University of Amsterdam and Maastricht.

"Most likely, Beethoven used less high notes in his second period because he had difficulty hearing specifically high notes.

We think he started using them again in his third period because he couldn’t hear at all anymore. He was probably composing from his inner hearing then.

That could explain why people are so appreciative of his music from this period, calling it free and expressive," said SILS-researcher Edoardo Saccenti.

Source: University of Amsterdam

Portrait Ludwig van Beethoven when composing the Missa Solemnis, by Joseph Karl Stieler, 1820

› For more info read Beethoven's deafness and his three styles | BMJ