7th Symphony First Edition

Updates on the acquisition of this unique score inscribed by Beethoven to Antonie Brentano

Although our crowdfunding campaign ended on June 11, we are continuing to raise funds through the summer to acquire this score.

To make a donation by check:
Make the check payable to "American Beethoven Society" and write "7th Symphony" in the memo. Send the check to:

American Beethoven Society/7th Symphony
San Jose State University
One Washington Square
San Jose CA 95192-0171

The American Beethoven Society is a 501(c)3 corporation, federal tax id 77-0515534

To make a donation by credit card:
Download the form, complete it, and return it to the address above (other options also listed on the form).

Donations may also be made online through the San Jose State University Tower Foundation. To donate online, go to the website and select "Other" in the gift opportunity selection. Be sure to indicate "Beethoven Center" and "7th Symphony Score" as the gift designation

Fund-raising update (July 16, 2018):

American Beethoven Society/Manuscript Club pledges & donations: $60,418

Crowdfunding campaign: $17,650

Total to date: $78,068

(Funds in reserve): $35,020

Total cost: $135,000

NEED TO RAISE: $56,932 ($21,912 if we use funds in reserve)

 

What is so special about this score?

Title page of 7th Symphony   

This unique Beethoven treasure is a significant—potentially extremely significant—discovery: a first edition score of the Seventh Symphony, inscribed by Beethoven to Antonie Brentano, the woman some believe was his “Immortal Beloved.” The seller has agreed to offer this exclusively to the Beethoven Center until the end of December.

What makes this offer so important to the Beethoven Center?

Letter to Franz Brentano

  • The inscribed score directly relates to an original manuscript letter maintained in the Center’s collection, written by Beethoven to Franz Brentano, dated February 15, 1817, in which Beethoven mentions sending “several musical works to recall myself to your friendly remembrance.” Beethoven is likely referring this score of his Seventh Symphony. For more information on this letter, click here.
Antonie Brentano
  • Beethoven’s handwritten inscription translates as “For my highly esteemed friend Antonia Brentano from the author.” Many scholars believe that Antonie was Beethoven’s Immortal Beloved. Beethoven completed the 7th Symphony in April 1812, just three months before he wrote his famous letters to her. 
Beethoven
  • In preparation for the 250th anniversary celebrations in 2020, the Center is looking to acquire more original Beethoven materials for exhibits. This is a rare chance that might not come again.