Episode 24 – Religion

In this episode, John examines whether or not Beethoven had any religious conviction. He discovers how the great composer stopped to play the organ in a church undergoing renovation; and how his playing was so compelling, the workmen put down their tools in order to listen. He’ll also explain what made Beethoven walk out on his friend, fellow composer Hummel, after the premiere of a piece of sacred music. John will play the monumental work that Beethoven wrote for the enthronement of an Archbishop - three years too late, as well as the one piece that John believes genuinely points to the composer’s belief in a greater force. All the Beethoven pieces featured in this podcast are taken from the 90-disc Naxos box set, the Complete Beethoven Edition. You can buy yours by heading to Presto Classical and Europadisc.