The Immortal Beethoven | Jan Swafford

What makes Beethoven immortal?In this wide-ranging conversation, pianist Orlando Alonso sits down with acclaimed biographer and composer Jan Swafford to explore the inner life, artistic courage, and spiritual defiance of Ludwig van Beethoven.We discuss:The myth and reality of the “Immortal Beloved”The revolutionary force of the late piano sonatasOp. 111 and the transcendence of the AriettaBeethoven’s deafness and artistic willThe tension between biography and legendWhat Beethoven still demands of performers todayThroughout the episode, we reference and briefly explore musical excerpts that illuminate key moments in Beethoven’s evolution — from storm and struggle to luminous transcendence.This is not simply a conversation about a composer.It is a meditation on artistic destiny, suffering, and immortality.Jan Swafford’s books are available wherever books are sold.Highly recommended:Beethoven: Anguish and TriumphMozart: The Reign of LoveJohannes Brahms: A BiographyCharles Ives: A Life with Music📜 Copyright NoteMusical excerpts included in this episode are used for purposes of commentary, criticism, and educational discussion. All rights to the recordings remain with their respective copyright holders.