To the Distant Beloved, Op. 98

Item Number: HL.51480579

8.25x11.75 inches.

To whom did Beethoven address this song cycle An die ferne Geliebte; (To the Distant Beloved;), which he completed at the age of 45 in April 1816? Was it to the same person, to whom his passionate letter to the Immortal Beloved; had already been dedicated in 1812? The source of Beethoven's song text is also shrouded in mystery. We only know the poet's name: Alois Jeitteles, a budding doctor and writer, about whose relationship with Beethoven we have no details. Whatever else, these songs provide a moving insight into the composer's inner state, as he managed to find new creative strength after a difficult year. The cycle has been edited by Helga Lühning (Beethoven-Haus Bonn), who illuminates our single edition in a competent preface.