It is not known whether Johann van Beethoven was born at the end of 1739, or at the beginning of 1740. It seems he too, like his father, was endowed with a beautiful voice, and entered the chapel as a soprano when he was 12 years old.
After receiving a musical education (in singing and piano) from his own father, he gradually advanced until, in 1764, he was earning a regular salary of at least 100 thalers. He earned additional income in his capacities as singer and piano teacher.
