Beethoven’s 9th
The Rotterdam Philharmonic hasn't been able to meet in person, so they performed Beethoven's 9th from their own homes. There is something so amazing about seeing their living spaces, and watching their facial expressions as each person plays his or her part.
On a historical note, the premiere of this symphony in 1824 involved the largest orchestra ever assembled by Beethoven, requiring musicians from a local orchestra, a local music society, and multiple local amateurs. The sheer volume of people and sheet music involved probably posed enormous challenges, however, the symphony was received with five rounds of standing ovations and hats in the air-- a story that is richly metaphoric for the efforts we are all making today.
Thanks to Dr. Lucy Willis for sending this along!
