Today, as Schroeder would be happy to tell you, is the birthday of the composer Ludwig von Beethoven. I found this children’s story from Japan of how the custom of playing Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony on Christmas began in Japan. You and your children might enjoy hearing the story and the symphony today. And you can go to Beethoven Depot for more information on Beethoven’s life, midis of Beethoven’s compositions, and even Beethoven jokes.