LUDWIG
VAN
BEETHOVEN

Hello,

I’m Gwanhoo Kim, a Korean American filmmaker based in California US.

 

I became a filmmaker because of Jackie Chan,

and the human that I revere most is Ludwig van Beethoven.

 

While I've spent my life exploring the vast landscape of Beethoven's genius, I've hit a self-imposed speed bump.

I have yet to listen to the Ninth “Choral” Symphony. Ludwig composed it at 54, and as a man in my mid-40s,

I feel I’m not yet ready to fully grasp its depth. I plan to listen to it when I turn 54—but I want to hear it performed

by the very best conductor and orchestra.

 

Here are the performances that currently hold me in the "My Best Collection":

 

• Symphony No. 5 – Carlos Kleiber / Vienna Philharmonic

• Symphony No. 3 – Karl Böhm / Vienna Philharmonic

• Moonlight Sonata – Maurizio Pollini

• Piano Concerto No. 5 - Alfred Brendel & James Levine w/ Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

 

If you were me, holding out for that 54th birthday milestone, which Symphony would you trust to meet the moment

and what are your favorite performances of all Beethoven's music?

​

Beethoven passed away on March 26, 1827, and 2027 marks the 200th anniversary of his death. This website celebrates that milestone by inviting fans worldwide to share their favorite recordings and the reasons they cherish them—so we can experience Beethoven together.

 

May this be a meaningful and joyful space for all who love Beethoven and his genius.