
Listen to: "Som Sabadell" flashmob -- Beethoven's 9th
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup=GBaHPND2QJg&feature=youtu.be
Imagine yourself in the town center of beautiful Sabadell, Spain. Close your eyes, think in your minds eye For a moment imagine yourself strolling, taking in the sights..when suddenly -- it's flashmob!
You are treated to the Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125, Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827). The symphony is one of the best-known works of the Western classical repertoire, and it is universally considered to be among Beethoven's greatest works. It has been adapted for use as the European Anthem.
Part of the ninth was, inspired round the poem "Ode To Joy" written by German poet Friedrich Schiller in 1785 and revised in 1803, with words added by the composer. The poem is a tribute to God and the wonders and joys of life and human love.
What makes it all the more inspirational is when you understand Beethoven's situation in life. By the time Beethoven had started writing the symphony he was totally deaf. It is said that at the premiere of "Ode To Joy" someone from the chorus had to run down to the podium at the conclusion to turn Beethoven around so he could see the audience because he couldn't hear the thunderous applause and cheering they were giving him. In addition to his loss of hearing Beethoven faced other health problems, in addition to being financially responsible for members of his family. He died three years after completion of the ninth symphony.
The symphony was the first example of a major composer using voices in a symphony. The words are sung during the final movement by four vocal soloists and a chorus. They were taken from the "Ode to Joy", a poem written by Friedrich Schiller in 1785 and revised in 1803, with additions made by the composer.
You millions, I embrace you.
This kiss is for all the world!
Brothers, above the starry canopy
There must dwell a loving Father.
Do you fall in worship, you millions?
World, do you know your creator?
Seek him in the heavens;
Above the stars must He dwell.
The Ninth Symphony teaches up to hope for this consummation of joy. The symphony also teaches us that the friendship that we bear even now is an image and a foretaste of that perfect communion which is the hallmark of eternity.
"Ode to Joy" is also the inspiration of our much-loved hymn: "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee."
How true are Beethoven's words:
“Music is a higher revelation than all wisdom and philosophy. Music is the electrical soil in which the spirit lives, thinks and invents.”