How much did Beethoven get paid?

Answer 1

I can't give you specifics without some research-- it's not as if he worked for a "Composition Firm" from 9 to 5 earning a regular salary. In those days composers might be fortunate enough to have rich titled patrons who supported them in their artistic work, usually with requirements to produce various works for the patron's court. A good example of such an artist is Francois Couperin (Le Grand, a contemporary of JS Bach) who was a musician in the court of Louis XIV. By Beethoven's day it was becoming more common to receive some private commissions for the composition of various works. And of course he was a famous and celebrated pianist before deafness overtook him. I think it's very interesting to note that while some composers (notably Mozart) died penniless and destitute, Beethoven managed his affairs in such a way that he was able to take care of himself and even leave an estate.