Daniel Steibelt

Full biography Daniel Steibelt

Daniel Gottlieb Steibelt (1765-1823) was a German composer and pianist. He is known for his piano works, including his twelve Divertissements for Piano Forte and Tambourine , Op.38. Steibelt's main works were composed in Paris , where he also established a music publishing company.

However, Steibelt is perhaps best known for his rivalry with Ludwig van Beethoven and the famous improvisation duel they had in Vienna in 1800. Steibelt traveled to Vienna for the sole purpose of challenging Beethoven to a musical duel , which ended up being a disaster for Steibelt. Beethoven's improvisation was far superior to Steibelt's, and he was left humiliated.

Despite this, Steibelt continued to compose and publish music throughout his career. He wrote about sixty violin sonatas and forty sonatas for harp, as well as numerous piano works. However, Steibelt's reputation as a composer has suffered due to his association with the failed musical duel with Beethoven.

In recent years, there has been renewed interest in Steibelt's music, with some critics recognizing the inventiveness and maturity of his writing. However, he remains largely underrated and underappreciated compared to other composers of his time.

In conclusion, Daniel Steibelt was a talented composer and pianist who is perhaps best remembered for his rivalry with Ludwig van Beethoven. While his reputation has suffered over the years, his music remains an important part of classical music history.