I can still remember listening to Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony for the first time when I was a little boy of eight or nine years old. Of course at the time I didn't know anything about Beethoven or symphonies. My grandpa would always listen to this music during the evenings and it made me curious so I asked him more.

He told me that one day I would understand the meaning of this music and would even learn to enjoy it myself. Today I know a lot about the life of Beethoven, I feel like I understand his music and I really enjoy it! Beethoven's music shaped my childhood, my youth and remains special for me today.

When I listen to Beethoven, it reminds me of my childhood and the affection that my grandfather always showed me. I believe that no matter what musical genre you listen to, the most important thing is how it makes you feel. I can't imagine our beautiful world without music. It would really be awful to have to live without it.

Sent by: Agustín from Mexico
Edited by: Kerstin Boljahn

Ludwig van Beethoven was a German composer who lived during the end of the 18th century. Born in Bonn, he led the Viennese classical period to its highest point of development. At the same time his work prepared the way for the romantic era of music. His most important work and last completed symphony was Beethoven’s Ninth.