Beethoven’s deceptive DNA

Year: 2024

Was Ludwig von Beethoven a mediocre composer who lacked a feeling for rhythm? Results from a recent analysis of his genes seem to suggest so. Dutch and German researchers calculated a so-called 'polygenic score', using data on the genetic patterns and the musicality of more than 600.000 individuals. When they applied the score to Beethoven's DNA, recovered from a strand of hair, they found that the famous musician had a low disposition for beat synchronization.

These results seem wrong, but technically the study didn't 'fail'. Instead: the researchers accurately expected that the score would not say anything about Beethoven's musicality. By arriving at such a counterintuitive result, they succeed in showing that genetic analysis of individuals is tricky. Although genes are related to certain skills on a population level, the authors warn researchers that they cannot predict the traits and talents of individuals - let alone those of a uniquely talented composer like Beethoven.

Read more about the study in this article.