Classical Composers: Normal People Just Like You and I

In today's society, we often assume that classical music is for the elite and upper class. We have the misconception that famous classical musicians were born with silver spoons in their mouths and grew up under elite tutors on sprawling estates. We also seem to be under the misconception that you must come from a wealthy or prominent background to understand classical music. This is far from the truth. Two of the most well-known composers, Ludwig Beethoven and Johann Sebastian Bach, were by no means part of the elite class in their lifetime. They were simple men who loved music.

Ludwig Beethoven was born into a simple family. He attended regular school until the age of ten and was known as a hot-tempered child. It was said that he learned very little while attending school. Beethoven also had a very rough childhood. His father was known to drink and come home late at night, drag him out of bed and beat him until he completed his music lessons. His father also believed he was excellent entertainment. When entertaining his drunken friends Ludwig would be required to play the violin for hours on end. It wasn't until his talent was noticed by other musicians that he was able to escape his father’s horrible rule. That doesn't sound like a privileged upbringing, if you ask me.

Johann Bach on the other hand, was never even considered an accomplished musician until long after he had passed away. Johann, who married his cousin in his twenties, was never a rich man. He travelled from job to job, working at times as an organist and at others as a pianist. His music was only found after his death, thanks to his second wife, who kept it locked away. He is now considered to have produced over three hundred cantatas during his lifetime.

There are many other classical composers whose personal stories run along these same lines. The vast majority of composers never became overly famous or wealthy. Most classical music composers were simple people who took up an instrument as a hobby, or maybe were forced to learn as a child. This does not mean these famous men and women did not have outstanding talent. However, had they never been exposed to the opportunity to play or compose, they would just be another name not found the history books. It also seems classical music grows in its popularity with each new generation.

As you can see, classical music comes from normal people just like you and I. You are not required to hold a Masters degree to appreciate it. Nor do you have to have a background in music or composing to know what sounds beautiful to you. Many people with no prior musical experience and no official training learn to compose and play. Many move on to become successful artists. So, if you have ever dreamed you could be the next Beethoven, you might as well try. Bach never knew he would be talked about in generations to come. Maybe you will be too, you never know. If you enjoy your music and need disk space to store it on, visit this site.