Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, Op. 125
Ludwig van Beethoven
Work background
Researched classical background
Beethoven expands the symphony by bringing vocal soloists and chorus into its finale. The last movement sets passages from Friedrich Schiller's poem on joy and human fellowship, after recalling and challenging earlier instrumental material. Completed in 1824, the work was first heard in Vienna that May. Its four movements move from a tense opening through scherzo and slow variations to the choral conclusion.
Inspiration and creative background
Schiller's poem An die Freude supplied the finale's text and its ideal of human fellowship.
Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Listen for the quiet first appearance of the finale's familiar melody in low strings before the voices enter.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Four vocal soloists, mixed chorus, and orchestra
Composition: 1822-1824
Planning reaches further back; this range covers the main commission and composition, completed in 1824.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Also known as: Choral Symphony; Ode to Joy
Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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