There are some works that hardly need an introduction, and Beethoven’s 9th Symphony is undoubtedly one of them. “The Great Symphony” has enchanted audiences throughout history with its powerful music and the famous “Ode to Joy” in the 4th movement. Beethoven’s 9th Symphony was revolutionary in several ways.


It is both long and magnificent, and for the first time an orchestra was supplemented by both choirs and soloists – a completely new dimension in symphonic music. It is a work that almost transcends the boundaries of music itself. The work has become a symbol of freedom and love, and has been a comfort and inspiration to people for centuries. The symphony is the EU anthem, and its dramatic and powerful notes were played under the Brandenburg Gate when the Berlin Wall fell, a moment when music emphasized hope and unity across nations. Here the word “Freude” was replaced with “Freiheit”. In 2001, Beethoven’s original, handwritten manuscript, from the Berlin State Library, was included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World programme as the first musical work ever. Thus, the symphony cemented its place as an iconic work in the world’s cultural heritage.

Hamburg Symphonic Chor

7 - 8 May, 2026

Beethoven's 9th.

Hamburg Symphonic Chor