Tale of Beethoven's 'Choral' Symphony Number 9 and the 'Joy' Anthem, dubbed as 'Ode to Joy'

In 1824, Ludwig van Beethoven, a man who would go down in history as one of the greatest composers of all time, completed a revolutionary work that would change the course of classical music - his Ninth Symphony. This symphony, renowned for its 'Ode to Joy' climax, marked a significant milestone in music history.

For the first time in a symphony, Beethoven used solo voices, setting the words of Schiller's poem An die Freude (Ode to Joy). This poem, a beautiful expression of Schiller's vision of the human race becoming brothers, became the heart of Beethoven's masterpiece.

The 'Ode to Joy' theme has symbolised hope, unity, and fellowship for almost 200 years. It has been the melody that symbolises the European Union since 1985, expressing the European ideals of freedom, peace, and solidarity. The EU's official website states that the 'Ode to Joy' anthem embodies these ideals.

The premiere of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony received a rapturous response, but Beethoven was unaware of it until alerted by one of the musicians. This was because Beethoven was profoundly deaf during the premier. Despite his deteriorating hearing, Beethoven persevered with writing his Ninth Symphony, a colossal work that would become one of the greatest works in the classical repertoire.

The 'Ode to Joy' was first adopted by the Council of Europe in 1972, and the EU leaders adopted it as the official anthem about a decade later. The earliest city to perform Beethoven's 'Ode to Joy' as an epic flash mob was Liverpool in 2009.

Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 sets Friedrich Schiller's poem 'Ode to Joy'. The short passage from the poem, "Joy, bright spark of divinity, Daughter of Elysium, Fire-inspired we tread, Within thy sanctuary. Thy magic power re-unites All that custom has divided, All men become brothers, Under the sway of thy gentle wings," perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the symphony.

John Suchet, a composer and Beethoven expert, will discuss the symphony movement by movement in a radio programme, providing insights into the genius behind this timeless piece of music. The 'Ode to Joy' continues to inspire and unite people across the globe, a testament to Beethoven's enduring legacy.

Tale of Beethoven's 'Choral' Symphony Number 9 and the 'Joy' Anthem, dubbed as 'Ode to Joy'