Ludwig van Beethoven

Ode To Joy

One of the greatest works in music history is the 9th Symphony by Ludwig van Beethoven. It was the last symphony by the composer, who was as ingenious as he was difficult, and in terms of scope and effort it surpassed anything that had previously existed in the symphonic realm: it lasts over an hour, requires an expanded orchestra, four vocal soloists and a large choir. The symphony's fourth movement, in which Beethoven set Friedrich Schiller's 'Ode to Joy' to music, became especially famous. The catchy melody and the statement 'All men become brothers' is famous all over the world and touches people of all nations and cultures. The 'Ode to Joy' was named the European anthem because of its unifying message. Alfred Bösendorfer has created a compact arrangement of the 'Ode to Joy' for wind orchestra that is suitable for many occasions. This arrangement is also particularly impressive as an hourly chorus or for open-air performances.