Counterpoint studies by Beethoven under J. Albrechtsberger

[gprengel]

In 1794 Beethoven studied counterpoint under his teacher Albrechtsberger who gave his pupil the theme and Beethoven had to write fugues - here with 4 voices. I had the joy to orchestrate these in the last 2 days: Quite a discovery https://gerdprengel.de/Hess239-Fugues_orch.mp3

[Peter]

Thanks for sharing this and taking the trouble to orchestrate them - yes shows just how accomplished Beethoven was and one wonders if he really needed any instruction, after all he had by this time several impressive works such as the Joseph Cantata WoO87. I think the fact that he even went to Albrechtsberger, Schenk and later Salieri suggests a degree of modesty not usually attributed to Beethoven!

[Chris]

Very nice, Gerd, thanks. I have always been interested in these studies - they provide a rare glimpse into the training of a master.

[gprengel]

And here 2 further awesome Triple Fugues: I present the video with the original notes by Beethoven: https://youtu.be/gQqM9iiOWMs?si=1BjLMkCLVpNv1nDa

[Peter]

Excellent Gerd - we're lucky to have all these sketches and exercises by Beethoven which give us a greater appreciation of his development as a composer - thankful he didn't destroy all this like Brahms!

[gprengel]

5 further little Fugues for 3 voices from Beethoven's counterpoint studies from 1794-95 which I had the joy to set for orchestra this evening :-) Enjoy these little gems ...

https://youtu.be/Lq5HnTPx3JQ?si=SpIu29KZB3JRDCyt

[Chris]

I did indeed enjoy them! Thanks for sharing your work, as always!