Beethoven's <Symphony No.9 in D minor, 'Choral'> is one of the most widely performed works of music in the entire world. Beethoven is such a celebrated name that people sometimes take his music for granted. But Beethoven never gave up on his music despite an acquired hearing disability. It blew my mind when I learned that his <Choral Symphony> was completed after he completely lost his sense of hearing.
Beethoven's ear affliction could have been a critical blow for a composer. And yet, he left us so many beautiful musical works through his fighting spirit. Even now, people find comfort and strength in his music. For this, I am deeply thankful.
take sth for granted - to accept or assume without question
have sth on - to turn some appliance or electronic device on
commemorative - done or made to officially remember and give respect to a great person or event
axed - to reduce services, jobs, payments, etc. a lot or completely without warning or in a single action
- It blew my mind when I saw it myself. / The first time I tried that dish, it blew my mind.
- The scandal was a critical blow for the actor. / The pandemic dealt a critical blow to many shops.
- I find comfort and strength in good books. / People rely on their friends to find comfort and strength.
1: This is a Beethoven piece, isn't it?
2: That's right. I have it on quite often.
1: I never get sick of the melody.
2: Of course. He left behind a lot of timeless classics.
1: I remember hearing that 2020 was the 250th anniversary of his birth.
2: That's right. Unfortunately, A lot of commemorative performances had to be axed because of COVID-19