A Gift for a Fan

How did a manuscript by one of the greatest classical composers end up in Canada? In 1825, Ludwig van Beethoven composed this brief fugue entitled “Freu dich des Lebens” (“Rejoice in Life”) for a visiting fan, Canadian music teacher Théodore-Frédéric Molt, as a souvenir of their meeting.

Visitors will be able to listen to a recording of the composition while viewing the precious manuscript.

Freu dich des lebens (Rejoice in Life)
Ludwig van Beethoven, 1825
Ink on paper
© Library and Archives Canada, e011313181

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(6.5 MB)