xoaqwepo: ich liebe du

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Though Alexander Thayer put the date of composition to be 1797–98 in Thayer's Life of Beethoven, recent research has found that "Zärtliche Liebe" was probably composed in 1795. 1795 was a turning point in Beethoven's career, since he was starting to become noticed by nobility and his works were becoming more popular. He had lived in Vienna for two years, and had studied with composers such as Haydn.

Zärtliche Liebe was first published in 1803 by Johann Traeg in Vienna, one year before Beethoven's 3rd symphony. It was published along with "La partenza", WoO 124.

I love you as you love me, in the evening and the morning, nor was there a day when you and I did not share our troubles. And when we shared them they became easier to bear; you comforted me in my distress, and I wept in your laments. Therefore, may God's blessing be upon you, You, my life's joy. God protect you, keep you for me, and protect and keep us both.