Considered perhaps the greatest composer in Western history, Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) was a key figure in the transition from the restraint and craftsmanship of the Classical period to the emotion and freedom of form of the Romantic period. Despite deafness encroaching on him as early as 1798, he continued to compose and perform music as a pianist and conductor. In the genres of symphonies, piano sonatas, and string quartets, his influence is incalculable, but he is also known for his concertos for violin and piano and his opera Fidelio.