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Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125, commonly known as the "Choral Symphony," is a monumental work that holds a special place in the history of classical music. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic piece:

1. Premiere and Debut of Choral Singing in a Symphony: Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 premiered on May 7, 1824, at the Kärntnertortheater in Vienna, Austria. This symphony is particularly famous for featuring vocal soloists and a mixed choir in its final movement, making it one of the first examples of a choral finale in a symphony.

2. Ode to Joy: The final movement of Symphony No. 9 features the famous "Ode to Joy" (German: "An die Freude"), a text adapted from a poem written by Friedrich Schiller. Beethoven was profoundly inspired by the idea of universal brotherhood and human solidarity expressed in the poem, and he incorporated it into the symphony to create a powerful and uplifting message.

3. Deafness during Composition: Beethoven composed the Ninth Symphony during a period when he was grappling with increasing deafness. By the time of its premiere, he was almost completely deaf. Despite this, he was able to create one of the most complex and emotionally charged works in the history of classical music.

4. Length and Structure: Symphony No. 9 is known for its substantial length, especially in comparison to Beethoven's earlier symphonies. The final movement, in particular, is quite expansive. The symphony is structured in four movements: Allegro ma non troppo, Molto vivace, Adagio molto e cantabile, and Presto - Allegro assai.

5. Influence on Later Composers: Beethoven's Ninth Symphony has had a profound impact on later composers and the development of classical music. Its innovative use of a choir in a symphony influenced composers like Brahms, Mahler, and Bruckner, and its overall emotional intensity paved the way for the Romantic era in music.

6. Use in Political and Cultural Contexts: The "Ode to Joy" theme has been used in various political and cultural contexts, including as the anthem of the European Union. The symphony has been performed at numerous historic events, symbolizing the universal themes of unity and joy.

7. Last Completed Symphony: Symphony No. 9 was Beethoven's last completed symphony. It marked a departure from traditional symphonic forms and was a groundbreaking work that expanded the possibilities of orchestral composition.

8. Controversial Metronome Marking: Beethoven's metronome marking for the final movement, which indicates a very fast tempo, has been a subject of controversy and debate among conductors and musicians. Some argue that Beethoven's metronome was faulty, while others believe he intended the movement to be performed at a brisk pace.

Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 continues to be celebrated and performed worldwide, captivating audiences with its emotional depth, innovative structure, and enduring message of joy and brotherhood.