The Genius of Beethoven, Part 1

Happy Halloween!  I am sure the ghosts, ghouls, goblins and all manner of imaginative costumed creatures will be out and about at least for a little while tonight.  I will, however, restrict myself from anything that requires any energy whatsoever.  Someone has managed to pass along their cold or virus or something and I feel genuinely crappy.  That does not preclude me from bringing you this week' special 3 day event as we once again join Charles Hazelwood in a personal exploration of the life and music of a classical composer.  The Genius of Beethoven is a powerful, moving and accurate documentary based on the life of Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827). Paul Rhys's masterful portrayal of Beethoven is particularly noteworthy, doing well to vividly convey the isolation and despair Beethoven experienced throughout his life, while insightful narration from the popular conductor, composer and presenter Charles Hazlewood does well to add a sophisticated educational dimension to the series.  In Part 1, The Rebel, Hazelwood introduces us to Beethoven's early life in Bonn, his turbulent relationship with his father, his eventual move to Vienna as a young man to study under Franz Joseph Haydn, as well as his coming to acknowledge and accept the fact that he was going deaf.  His musical genius was not hindered by his deafness, rather his  acceptance of it seemed to empower and motivate him as he creates some of the best loved and beautiful music the world has ever known.  Join with me in watching the Genius that was Beethoven:

I will not be remiss in providing you with your daily does of man candy, either, with this little collection of Random Hotness to get you over the hump and headed for the weekend.  Be sure to stop in tomorrow for Part 2 of our look at the life and music of Beethoven.  Until next time as always, Enjoy!