Ludwig's father abused alcohol and was often aggressive towards his wife and children. Eventually, life in the family home became dominated by the father's decline. Ludwig's mother died in 1787. In 1789, Beethoven's father was forcibly dismissed from his job due to alcoholism and it was ordered that half of his pension be paid directly to Ludwig to support the family. He contributed to the family income (he did it reluctantly, as his friend Wegeler said) by giving lessons and playing the viola in the court orchestra.
In his later years, Beethoven never mentioned his father, but a portrait of his mother, whom he had great love for, always stood on his desk.
