Beethoven was likely the first composer to which Sir James was introduced as a boy. As Sir James became aware of Beethoven’s iconic status, especially enshrined in the opening of the Fifth Symphony, he also came to appreciate the depths of Beethoven’s complex personality. He was unafraid to integrate those varied feelings into the landscape of his compositions. Beethoven’s slow and brooding Moonlight Sonata, which evoked memories of solace and comfort for the young James, was also a piece that he could also play as a young boy—a reminder of how early encounters with music can be formative.
Performed by Andrea Romano:
