March 29, 1795 – A Star is Born: Beethoven’s First Vienna Performance

March 29

Copy of Ludwig Van Beethoven Portrait

On March 29, 1795, a young Ludwig van Beethoven took the stage for his first public performance in Vienna. Performing at the Burgtheater, he played his Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major, a later staple of his early works. His technical brilliance and emotional depth captivated the audience and left them in awe, their enthusiastic response solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the European music scene.

At a mere 24 years of age, Beethoven had already established himself as a virtuoso pianist and a composer of great promise. His debut performance was met with resounding acclaim, heralding the arrival of a musical prodigy. This concert was the first step in a journey to see him create some of his most enduring works, such as Symphony No. 5 and Moonlight Sonata.

Beethoven would revolutionize classical music, pushing the boundaries of composition and performance. His Vienna debut was just the beginning of a legendary career that would leave an indelible mark on the world.

Fun Facts:

  • Debut Venue: Burgtheater, Vienna
  • Piece Performed: Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major
  • Age at Debut: 24 years old
  • Tragically, towards the end of his life, Beethoven was afflicted with deafness, a cruel twist of fate for a man whose career was built on his acute senses.