One of Beethoven’s most famous concertos was suggested to the
composer as he heard repeated knocks in the stillness of the
night at the door of a neighbor. The concerto begins with
four soft taps of the drum--an instrument which is raised in
this work to the rare dignity of a solo instrument. Again and
again the four beats are heard throughout the music, making
a wonderful effect. God uses even the humblest player in His
orchestra for some solo work. A man who can only play a drum can
be made valuable in the music of the world. Let us be ready to
do what He bids us, modest and obscure as our part may be, and
thus we shall help on the harmonies of heaven. (Text.)
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