This authoritative and innovative book tells the story of Beethoven's life and works, highlighting some of the most important events by the inclusion of facsimile memorabilia, much of it only available for viewing in museums around Europe. Although not as prolific a composer as Mozart or Haydn, Beethoven's work revealed a passion which rightly led to him being hailed as one of the first romantic composers. The Treasures of Beethoven looks at the stories behind the music and celebrates the man who, at one point, became the most famous man in Vienna, with works performed in every concert hall across Europe, and whose compositions have inspired countless generations of musicians since.