«so einen frack muß ich haben.». (German)

This article discusses whether or not classical composers such as Ludwig van Beethoven would be able to financially support themselves with their music in the 21st century. Several topics are discussed, including how during the middle ages musicians were paid according to their type of instrument, how the myth that most classical composers died in poverty is only true for Beethoven and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and how the 19th century composer Giuseppe Verdi became very wealthy with his music.