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ODE TO JOY: BEETHOVEN'S SYNPHONY NO. 9

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This program introduces you to one of the greatest works of music ever composed, performed by an orchestra comprised of young and diverse classical musicians that might get young viewers excited about classical music or filming music. In this hour and half program we are treated to a performance of Beethoven's powerful Symphony No. 9 by an orchestra and chorus that includes a significant number of young performers. The performance took place at Princeton University to celebrate the 100th birthday of philanthropist William Scheide, to whom the orchestra and audience sing Happy Birthday at the end. A wonderful opportunity to observe musicians engage in musical conversation at the highest level. Be forewarned that viewers have to sit through an introduction before the music is performed. With all due respect, this part will likely bore young viewers and has little to do with Beethoven, who is given brief coverage.

Ludwig van Beethoven's transformative Symphony No. 9 has been described as "the world's greatest symphony," its "Ode to Joy" recognizable even to the most casual classical music listener. This program showcases this triumphant musical masterpiece in a rare full-length television recording by the Vienna hamber Orchestra with the Westminster Symphonic Choir, under the direction of conductor Mark Laycock.