Ludwig van Beethoven (baptized December 17, 1770 – March 26, 1827) was a German composer of classical music, who lived predominantly in Vienna, Austria. Beethoven is widely regarded as one of history's supreme composers, and he produced notable works even after losing his hearing. He was one of the greatest figures in the transitional period between the Classical and Romantic eras in music. His reputation has inspired — and in many cases intimidated — composers, musicians, and audiences who were to come after him. Among his most widely-recognized works are his Third, Fifth, Sixth and Ninth symphonies (the latter containing the "Ode to Joy"); Piano Concerto No. 5 ("Emperor"); a Violin Concerto; the Pathétique, Moonlight, Appassionata, and Hammerklavier piano sonatas; and the bagatelle Für Elise For more details on this topic, see Life and work of Ludwig van Beethoven. Beethoven was born at 515 Bongasse, Bonn, Germany, to Johann van Beethoven (1740–1792); and Magdalena Keverich van Beethoven (1744–1787) in 1770. Many reference works show 16 December as Beethoven's date of birth, since he was baptized on 17 December and children at that time were generally baptized the day after their birth.Beethoven's first music teacher was his father, a musician in the Electoral court at Bonn and an alcoholic who beat him and unsuccessfully attempted to exhibit him as a child prodigy like Mozart. However, others soon noticed Beethoven's talent. In 1787 young Beethoven went to Vienna for the first time. While in Vienna he played songs for Mozart. Mozart was very impressed with Beethoven's performance. He was given instruction and employment by Christian Gottlob Neefe, as well as financial sponsorship by the Prince-Elector. Beethoven's mother died when he was 17, and for several years he was responsible for raising his two younger brothers.