Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, also known as “Choral Symphony,” is regarded as one of the greatest compositions ever to be composed. It is also one of the best symphonies attributed to Beethoven. The final movement of the composition features four vocalists and a chorus. The vocalists sing a set of “A Die Freude (Ode to Joy),” a poem by Schiller (engchi93). Today, the story of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony is widely told. At the time of composing the piece, Beethoven had lost his hearing. At the time when the piece was premiered, he was deaf. However, he appeared on the stage as a general director for the whole performance, and the orchestra was led by someone else.
Ninth Symphony has remained to be monumental in public events owing to its powerful message about hope and unity. Beethoven lived during the enlightenment age when great change was imperative in Europe. During this time, many people questioned traditional institutions on matters regarding whether their customs and morals were right (Schwarm). Aspects such as equality and ideals of freedom inspired him, especially during French Revolution. His desire towards these aspects of humanity and democracy on the status quo at the time is a belief in both democracy and humanity. As a consequence, his Ninth Symphony composition was a celebration of brotherhood and fraternal ideals.
Although Ninth Symphony has received several critiques, it has withstood a test of time and made its mark. Mostly, this can be attributed to Beethoven’s ability to balance classical ideals such as logic and reason (Schwarm). Taking consideration of a world full of popular cultures, the Symphony’s elements provide a backdrop of several twisted and tense moments in Stanley Kubrick’s – 1971 – film, especially in the second movement. More so, the fourth movement includes several scenes that also indicate a balance of both logic and reason.
Work Cited
engchi93. Beethoven Symphony No. 9 – Mvt. 4 – Barenboim/West-Eastern Divan Orchestra. 25 August 2012. Web. 17 June 2021. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChygZLpJDNE>.
Schwarm, Betsy. Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, Op. 125 – Work by Beethoven. 26 April 2013. Web. 17 June 2021. <https://www.britannica.com/topic/Symphony-No-9-in-D-Minor>.
