What composer both maintained and disrupted the balance of classical style?

Ludwig van Beethoven is a composer who both maintained and disrupted the balance of classical style. He built upon the foundations laid by composers like Mozart and Haydn, adhering to classical forms and structures in his early works. However, as his career progressed, he began to push the boundaries of harmony, form, and emotional expression, paving the way for the Romantic era and fundamentally altering the course of Western music. His innovative approach created a bridge between the classical and romantic styles, reflecting both continuity and transformation.