Here are some interesting facts about Ludwig van Beethoven's String Quartet No. 16, Op. 135:
Final Quartet: Op. 135 is Beethoven's last complete string quartet. It was composed in 1826, just a few months before his death.
Dedication: Beethoven dedicated the quartet to his patron and friend, Johann Georg von Browne, a Russian nobleman.
Subtitled "Der schwer gefasste Entschluss" (The Difficult Decision): Beethoven added a subtitle to the final movement, reflecting the emotional complexity and depth of the piece.
Unconventional Structure: The quartet follows the standard four-movement structure but is somewhat unconventional. The movements are marked as follows: Allegretto, Vivace, Lento assai, and Grave ma non troppo tratto - Allegro.
Musical Quotation: The quartet includes a musical quote from Beethoven's own earlier work, the "Missa Solemnis," in the final movement. This quote is part of a theme marked "Muß es sein?" (Must it be?) and "Es muss sein!" (It must be!), expressing Beethoven's philosophical musings.
Inscribed with a Poem: Beethoven wrote a poem on the manuscript of Op. 135, expressing his thoughts on the nature of music and its higher purpose.
Premiere Delayed: The first performance of Op. 135 was delayed due to Beethoven's illness. The premiere took place on March 21, 1828, in Vienna, in a concert that also featured the premiere of his Ninth Symphony.
Farewell to Quartet Writing: Beethoven's late string quartets, including Op. 135, are considered some of his most profound and forward-looking compositions. They mark a departure from traditional classical forms and have had a significant influence on later composers.
These facts provide a glimpse into the fascinating background and composition of Beethoven's String Quartet No. 16, Op. 135.