A turning point for classical music composition. The grandest concert of the season – Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, Ode to Joy. Ode to Joy is widely considered to be Beethoven’s greatest work, and one of the most supreme achievements in the history of western music. In the field of symphonic music, there is no bigger revolutionary than Beethoven, whose works were heavily influenced by socio-political events of his time, as well as his own political views and engagement as an artist and enlightened citizen.

WHAT'S INTERESTING ABOUT THIS CONCERT

  • THE TURNING POINT: Ludwig van Beethoven was one of the most significant innovators and groundbreakers in the history of music. His symphonies are considered an unmatched model for orchestral writing. The most remarkable, Symphony No. 9 was written in 1824, and introduces chorus and vocal soloists in its last movement.
  • The text was adapted from a poem titled Ode to Joy, written by Friedrich Schiller in 1785 and revised in 1803, with additional text written by Beethoven.
  • Symphony No. 9 premiered in Vienna on May 7, 1824, under the composer’s direction. There are several conflicting testimonies regarding the performance, but all agree that the audience acclaimed him through many standing ovations – with handkerchiefs and hats thrown in the air, and raised hands, so that Beethoven, who they knew could not hear the applause, could at least see the ovations.
  • In 2001, Beethoven's original, hand-written manuscript of the score, held by the Berlin State Library, was added to the Memory of the World Heritage Program, established by the United Nations, becoming the first musical score to be so designated.