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Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125, commonly known as the "Choral Symphony," is a monumental work with several interesting facts:

1. Premiere and Deafness: Beethoven conducted the premiere of Symphony No. 9 on May 7, 1824, in Vienna. Remarkably, he was completely deaf by this time, and it is said that he had to be turned around to see the audience's thunderous applause.

2. Final Movement - Ode to Joy: The final movement of the symphony features the famous "Ode to Joy," based on a poem by Friedrich Schiller. This choral finale includes four soloists and a mixed choir, making it one of the first examples of a major composer using vocal soloists and choir in a symphony.

3. Influence on Later Composers: Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 had a profound impact on later composers. Its innovative use of a choral finale inspired many, including Brahms, Mahler, and Bruckner. The idea of incorporating a choir into a symphony became more prevalent in the Romantic era.

4. Length and Structure: The Ninth Symphony is one of Beethoven's longest compositions, with a typical performance lasting around 70 minutes. It consists of four movements: Allegro ma non troppo, Molto vivace, Adagio molto e cantabile, and Presto – Allegro assai.

5. Political Symbolism: The Ninth Symphony has been used as a symbol of unity and the human spirit. It was performed at the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, and the European Union adopted the "Ode to Joy" as its anthem. The music's universal themes of brotherhood and joy contribute to its enduring popularity.

6. Famous Quotations: The Symphony No. 9 is known for its memorable themes, and the "Ode to Joy" has been widely quoted in various contexts, from political speeches to film soundtracks. Its uplifting and celebratory nature makes it a timeless and universally recognized piece of classical music.

Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 is celebrated not only for its musical brilliance but also for its historical and cultural significance.