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Ludwig van Beethoven, (December 16, 1770 – March 26, 1827) was a German composer and virtuoso pianist. He was an important figure in the transitional period between the Classical and Romantic eras in Western classical music, and remains one of the most famous and influential composers of all time.
Beethoven was born in Bonn, Germany in 1770. Of the seven children born to Johann Beethoven, himself the only survivor of three, only second-born Ludwig and two younger brothers survived infancy. Although his birth date is not known for certain, his family celebrated his birthday on December 16. Some people state that the odd numbered symphonies of Beethoven are majestic, while the even numbered symphonies of Beethoven are peaceful. This is especially the case with Symphony No. 4 in B Flat Major, as it contrasts heavily with heroic Symphony No. 3 in E Flat Major and tragic Symphony No. 5 in C Minor. Robert Schumann stated that this piece was "a slender Greek maiden between two Norse gods." This is explainable, as when he wrote this symphony in 1806, it was the most tranquil moment of his life.
Count Franz von Oppersdorff was the relative of Beethoven's patron, Prince Lichnowsky. When the Count traveled to Lichnowsky's summer home, he managed to meet Beethoven, who was having a summer vacation. Von Oppersdorff listened to Beethoven's Symphony No. 2 in D Major, and liked it so much that he offered a great amount of money for Beethoven to compose a new symphony for him. Beethoven went to work, using the cheerful mood of the Second Symphony. The dedication was made to "the Silesian nobleman Count Franz von Oppersdorf" (refer to Beethoven Handbook by Paul Netl; Frederick Ungar Publishing Co., New York, 1967. p. 262)
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