Introduction
Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 is one of the most well-known works of classical music. It was composed in 1824, during the late period of the composer’s career (Burnham & Steinberg, 2020). In this essay, the style and characteristics of the era in which the symphony was written, as well as Beethoven’s style and unique sound characteristics, will be examined. Symphony No. 9 was created during the Romantic era, which lasted from the late 18th century to the mid-19th century (Burnham & Steinberg, 2020).
Musical Style
Romanticism was characterized by an interest in individualism, nature, mystical and fantastic themes, and a new approach to art and life. Some famous composers of this era include Schubert, Schumann, Mendelssohn, and Liszt. New tendencies and genres that emerged during Romanticism included symphonic poetry, opera, romances, and liturgical music. These genres differed from the classical music of the time in their greater expressiveness and emotional intensity.
Beethoven’s style can be described as classical with elements of Romanticism. His music is characterized by deep emotional expression, rich harmonies, and a robust rhythm. Beethoven was known for his individuality and bold approach to musical composition. Some unique sound characteristics of Beethoven’s music include dynamic, solid contrasts and unexpected chromatic transitions. Beethoven also used various instruments to create a rich and deep sound.
Significance and Legacy
Symphony No. 9 is one of the most famous works in musical history. It combines elements of classical music and Romanticism and demonstrates Beethoven’s unique sound characteristics. Beethoven created a symphony that used a choir and soloists in the final movement, an innovative solution for the time (Burnham & Steinberg, 2020). This further strengthened the expressiveness and depth of the music (DW Classical Music, 2022).
Overall, Symphony No. 9 reflects the spirit of the Romantic era and Beethoven’s style. One of the most recent performances of this work was presented in Oslo Concert Hall on 4th January 2019 (Oslo Philharmonic). The audience of this performance was people of various backgrounds who highly appreciated the work of the composer.
Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 is one of the most well-known and significant works of classical music. However, it is worth noting that at the time, music was only accessible to a limited circle of people, depending on their social status and education. Symphony No. 9’s first performance took place in Vienna in 1824 (Burnham & Steinberg, 2020). The audience included musicians, music critics, aristocracy representatives, and wealthy patrons.
In addition, when Symphony No. 9 was written, Beethoven was in a problematic state, both physically and emotionally. He was going through a midlife crisis, losing his hearing, and facing several personal problems. This undoubtedly influenced how he wrote his final symphony. For example, in the last movement of the piece, Beethoven used Friedrich Schiller’s poetry, which speaks of the unity of humanity and brotherhood. This could have been related to the composer’s personal experiences when he felt lonely and isolated.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that Beethoven’s writing of Symphony No. 9 was linked to his desire to express profound human ideals such as freedom, equality, and brotherhood. In the symphony’s final movement, he used verses from Friedrich Schiller’s poem “Ode to Joy,” which speak of the unity of humanity and brotherhood (Burnham & Steinberg, 2020). This musical masterpiece is considered one of the most significant works of world culture, as it expressed profound human ideals that were relevant both then and now.
Conclusion
Overall, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 reflects the spirit of the Romantic era and the composer’s style. This work has become an icon of musical culture and one of the most well-known and beloved works of classical music. Symphony No. 9 is an example of how a composer can use music to express deep feelings and emotions while simultaneously creating something unique and innovative. It can be said that Beethoven’s personal life may have influenced his work, including Symphony No. 9. At the same time, this work was written for a broad audience, including those who appreciated music not only from aesthetic but also from social and moral perspectives.
References
Burnham, S., & Steinberg, M. P. (2020). Beethoven and his world. Princeton University Press.
DW Classical Music (2022). Beethoven: Symphony no. 9 | Jordi Savall with Le Concert des Nations (complete symphony). [Video]. YouTube. Web.
Oslo Philharmonic. (2019). Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 / Klaus Mäkelä / Oslo philharmonic [Video]. YouTube. Web.