Sketch of Handel and Beethoven Two Lectures, Delivered in the Lecture Hall of the Wimbledon Village Club, on Monday Evening, Dec. 14, 1863; and Monday Evening, Jan. 11, 1864

"Sketch of Handel and Beethoven" by Thomas Hanly Ball is a dual biography presenting the lives and legacies of two iconic composers of classical music. The book journeys through the lives of George Frederick Handel and Ludwig van Beethoven, highlighting their passionate pursuits within the landscape of 18th and 19th century Europe. We discover Handel's determined rise from youthful resistance against his father’s desires to musical prominence, including the creation of the influential "The Messiah." Similarly, it charts Beethoven's progression from his early days in Bonn to becoming a Viennese master, amidst personal hardship, including his struggle with deafness. Through historical and musical context, the lectures paint a picture of these influential musicians and their everlasting influence on the world.