Dr. Theodore Albrecht, UNT Distinguished Alumnus, has published the first volume of a path-breaking translation and edition of the deaf composer Ludwig van Beethoven's so-called Conversation Books.  Beethoven (1770-1827) began losing his hearing in 1798, and in 1818 began using blank booklets for his acquaintances to write their sides of conversations, while the composer himself replied orally.  Albrecht's English translation and edition is being issued by the British publisher Boydell & Brewer in 12 volumes at approximately one volume per year.  Volume 1 (including booklets 1-8) has just appeared and covers from February, 1818 to March, 1820.  It includes such subjects as his legal battles over the guardianship of his nephew Karl, his composition of the Catholic Missa solemnis, his intolerance for anti-Semitism, as well as his pantheistic Evening Song under the Starry Heavens.  Discussions range from history, education, literature, religion, languages, and science, to Beethoven's reading habits and his ways of eating a sausage!  To order, please click here.  Use promo code BB130 to receive 30% off until December 31, 2018.