Did Beethoven Think of Bach and Handel?

It is no secret that the impact of Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel on Ludwig van Beethoven was profound. Throughout his life, Beethoven was not just inspired by their music but also deeply respected and even idolized them. The walls of his studio were adorned with posters of Bach and Handel, and he maintained a collection of their albums, clearly showing his admiration for these composers.

Beethoven’s Adoration

Beethoven’s affection for Bach and Handel was so strong that he went to great lengths to have reminders of them around him. He adorned his walls with posters of these classical giants, not just as tokens but as constant inspirations. Similar to his approach with posters, Beethoven was always keen on acquiring the latest Bach or Handel merchandise. Whether it was a lunch box or an action figure, he didn’t miss an opportunity to keep these composers close to his heart.

Life Before Their Times

It is worth noting that in Beethoven's time, Handel was already a revered figure in the world of music. He was celebrated throughout his life and continued to be admired even after his death. In stark contrast, Bach’s influence was not as immediate. He lived and worked away from the central hubs of musical activity in Germany and his music was not as widely appreciated during his lifetime. However, over time, Bach’s works began to gain prominence, particularly following Beethoven’s death.

Beethoven’s Praises for Bach and Handel

Beethoven openly declared his admiration for Handel multiple times during his later years. He even went so far as to claim that Handel was the greatest composer who ever lived. Handel’s music remained a beloved part of Beethoven’s life, and he often received Handel’s scores as gifts from friends on his birthday.

Regarding Bach, though he was less prominent during his lifetime, Beethoven was still familiar with his music. In particular, he admired the Well-Tempered Clavier, a collection that was widely used as a teaching tool for piano students. Its enduring popularity was a testament to its importance and quality.

Interestingly, Beethoven even demonstrated his affection for Bach by reimagining his name. He famously remarked, “Bach, in German, means brook, but his music is an ocean, not a mere stream.” This quote beautifully captures the immense depth and breadth of Bach’s contributions to music. If Beethoven had known a broader range of Bach's works, the admiration expressed by this quote might have been even deeper.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is evident that Beethoven’s thoughts and feelings towards Bach and Handel were deeply rooted in his music and life. His constant admiration, combined with his profound respect, makes a compelling case for the lasting legacy of these composers on Beethoven’s work and life. The walls, lunch boxes, and even his continuous interest in their music are testament to the significance of Bach and Handel in Beethoven’s world.