The Ninth Symphony was commissioned by the Philharmonic Society of London in 1817, and its main composition work took place between autumn 1822 and February 1824. Beethoven composed other pieces during these years, including a piano concerto movement known as the Choral Fantasy, Op. 80. The latter, a piano concerto with choir and vocal soloists, evolved into the Ninth Symphony. The Ninth Symphony’s theme is also featured in the Choral Fantasy, Op. 80, which Beethoven composed in 1808.
Lessons from Beethoven’s 9th symphony
The Ninth Symphony is one of the most challenging pieces of western music, and it has inspired many diametrically opposing interpretations over the years. Early listeners assumed that Beethoven had gone mad and was lost as a composer when he composed this work, which included a choral setting of Friedrich Schiller’s “Ode to Joy.”
Influence of “Ode to Joy” on other composers
The 9th Symphony, often referred to as Beethoven’s crowning achievement, was inspired by a poem by Friedrich Schiller. “Ode to Joy” has been interpreted in many ways throughout history. It has even been used as an anthem by some entities. But how did Beethoven get the idea for his piece? What influenced other composers to use it as a anthem?
Influence of Napoleonic era on composer’s compositions
The influence of the Napoleonic era on Beethoven’s 9nd symphony compositions is often a topic of discussion. In the 1860s, Napoleon was a hot topic and the Third Symphony was no exception. Although Beethoven had other political motivations, he was primarily inspired by the events of that time. As such, he drew on the theme of the French Revolution to write his work.
Impact on composer’s life
In 1989, the Chinese students stood in Tiananmen Square, facing down tanks. Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony premiered that December, to commemorate the fall of the Berlin wall. Beethoven was not able to hear the premiere, so he continued to wave his arms during the performance. However, he did turn toward the audience to receive the applause. The Ninth Symphony has been the subject of much controversy, as many musicians felt that the piece was too long and confusing. However, this opinion has since shifted, and many musicians now acknowledge that the symphony is one of Beethoven’s best works.
Influence on other composers
There are many theories regarding the influence of Beethoven’s 9th symphonic poem, “Ode to Joy,” on other composers. While Beethoven was nearly deaf at the time of composition, the composer began sketching ideas for the piece in his late 20s. Beethoven was perhaps particularly drawn to the poem’s revolutionary undertones, since it expressed universal joy.
