WINNER of Presto Books Best Composer BiographyNINE WORKS OF BEETHOVEN NINE WINDOWS INTO THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF A MUSICAL GENIUS. We are doubly blessed that Beethoven should have led such an extraordinary life. Laura has combined the two the genius of his music and the richness of his experiences to shine a revealing light on our greatest composer John HumphrysLudwig van Beethoven to some simply the greatest ever composer of Western classical music. Yet his life remains shrouded in myths.In Beethoven Oxford professor Laura Tunbridge cuts through the noise. With each chapter focusing on a period of his life piece of music and revealing theme from family to friends from heroism to liberty she provides a rich insight into the man and the music. Revealing a wealth of neverbeforeseen material this tour de force is a compelling accessible portrayal of one of the worlds most creative minds and it will transform how you listen for ever. Tunbridge has come up with the seemingly impossible a new way of approaching Beethovens life and music . . . profoundly original and hugely readable John Suchet author Beethoven The Man RevealedThis well researched and accessible book is a must read for all who seek to know more about the flesh and blood tangible Beethoven. John Clubbe author of Beethoven The Relentless RevolutionaryThis book is really wonderful ... However many books on Beethoven you own find the space for one more. This one Stephen Hough pianist composer writerIn a year when everyones looking for a new take on Beethoven Laura Tunbridge has found nine. Fresh and engaging Norman Lebrecht author of Genius and Anxiety Remarkable . . . she captures the essence of his genius and character. Ill always want to keep it in easy reach Julia Boyd author of Travellers in the third Reich