Ludwig van Beethoven

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827) was a German composer and pianist, widely considered one of the greatest composers who ever lived. He remains one of the most admired composers in the history of Western music; his works span the transition from the Classical period to the Romantic era in classical music.

His Ninth Symphony, containing the famous choral finale "Ode to Joy", and the Missa Solemnis are among the most celebrated works in the choral repertoire.