Ludwig van Beethoven. Epistolario 1823-1824. Vol. 5

Beethoven's mature masterworks are the backdrop to the rich correspondence dated 1823-24. The great composer continued to increase his musical output in an effort to sustain himself and his nephew Karl. The Missa solemnis, the Ninth Symphony, the Diabelli Variations, his first set of Bagatelles for piano, the commissions for three quartets for Prince Galitzin: while Beethoven was busy in the frenzy of composition Anton Schindler was to appear on the scene, a sometimes overbearing and uncomfortable presence. We have confirmation, also through the dates of some letters, of the importance of the Conversation notebooks, the mirror of the great composer's daily life.

The Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia is undertaking the publication of Beethoven's epistolary an operation of noteworthy importance. After many years, during which the need for a completely revised Italian edition has been increasingly felt, scholars and music lovers will finally be able to consult an edition of Beethoven's letters that has been published following the most rigorous scientific criteria. Luigi Della Croce has rendered the German originals edited by Sieghard Brandenburg in a rich and readable Italian text.
Altogether the collection comprises about 2300 letters (from 1783 to 1827) divided into six volumes, added to these are two volumes containing the register, other documents and various indexes. Alongside the letters written by Beethoven or addressed to him are also some letters by third parties regarding the composer (or his works), minutes and other documents. A unique and irreplaceable source on the life and works of a great composer.