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Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125, commonly known as the "Choral Symphony," is a masterpiece that holds great significance in the world of classical music. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic composition:

1. Premiere and Debut of the Ode to Joy:

   • The Symphony No. 9 premiered on May 7, 1824, at the Kärntnertortheater in Vienna, with Beethoven himself conducting. It was a momentous occasion as it marked the first time in the history of Western classical music that a composer had used vocal soloists and a mixed choir in a symphony.

2. Ode to Joy:

   • The final movement of the symphony features the famous "Ode to Joy" (Ode an die Freude), a poem written by Friedrich Schiller. Beethoven incorporated this ode into the choral finale, expressing themes of universal brotherhood and the joy of living.

3. Deafness of Beethoven:

   • Beethoven composed the Ninth Symphony during a period when he was almost completely deaf. The premiere was particularly challenging for him as he had to be turned around to see the enthusiastic applause of the audience since he couldn't hear it.

4. Influence on Later Composers:

   • The Ninth Symphony has had a profound impact on subsequent generations of composers. It is considered a landmark work that expanded the possibilities of the symphonic form and influenced later composers like Brahms, Mahler, and Wagner.

5. Four Movements:

   • The symphony consists of four movements: Allegro ma non troppo, Scherzo: Molto vivace, Adagio molto e cantabile, and the famous Finale: Presto. The final movement is longer than the previous three combined and features the choral finale.

6. Inscription on Beethoven's Monument:

   • The "Ode to Joy" theme from the Ninth Symphony is inscribed on Beethoven's monument in Bonn, Germany, his birthplace. The monument was unveiled in 1845, about 13 years after Beethoven's death.

7. International Anthem:

   • Due to its powerful and uplifting message, the "Ode to Joy" has been adopted as the anthem of the European Union. It represents the values of unity and harmony among European nations.

Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest achievements in the history of classical music, admired for its innovation, emotional depth, and its timeless message of joy and fraternity.