Today in History is a daily newsletter from Britannica. (more) Today in History—April 27: Beethoven’s most popular song Written by Brian Duignan Brian Duignan is a senior editor at Encyclopædia Britannica. His subject areas include philosophy, law, social science, politics, political theory, and religion. Brian Duignan Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Apr. 23, 2026 •History On this day in 1810, composer Ludwig van Beethoven shared his feelings in a beautiful piano piece, Für Elise, meaning “For Elise.” But it was not published during his lifetime—in fact not until 1867, 40 years after his death—presumably because he was never quite satisfied with the composition. Indeed, he never even named it: “Für Elise” was a dedication that he wrote on the sheet music. Today in History is a daily newsletter from Britannica....

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