A talk about a prolific composer who was a friend and pupil of Ludvig van Beethoven will be held on Friday.

Michael Spiteri will give a public talk about Ferdinand Ries, a little known German composer. Recordings of some of his works will also be played in what is the latest music appreciation evening organised by the German-Maltese Circle’s Classical Music Group.

Ries (1784-1838) published a volume of reminiscences of Beethoven in 1838, co-written with Franz Wegeler.

Ries was a prolific composer in his own right, writing eight symphonies, a violin concerto, nine piano concertos and numerous other works in many genres, including 26 string quartets.

Of these, the symphonies, some chamber works – most of them with piano – and his piano concertos have been recorded, demonstrating a style which is, unsurprisingly, somewhere between that of the classical and early romantic eras.

Those interested in exploring and appreciating the wonderful world of classical music are invited to join this group and attend its monthly activities. Membership is free.

These music appreciation evenings are dedicated mainly to German and Austrian composers, and have so far featured Richard Wagner, Anton Bruckner, Felix Mendelssohn, Richard Strauss, Gustav Mahler, Clara Schumann, Johannes Brahms, Ludwig van Beethoven, Joseph Haydn and Franz Liszt.

The talk will be held at Messina Palace, 141 St Christopher Street, Valletta, on Friday at 6.30 p.m.