197 years ago today Ludwig van Beethoven tragically joined the Choir Invisible in Vienna, Austria, after suffering from a lifetime of poor health. The Grand Maestro was 56 years old. His final words were "Applaud, friends, the comedy is over." He whispered "Pity— too late," after his favorite wine finally arrived at his bedside.
On 29 March 1827, 10,000 people would attend his funeral, including torch-bearer Franz Schubert (31 Jan 1797 – 19 Nov 1828). A musical virtuoso in his own right, he worshipped Beethoven from afar. Protocol prevented Herr Schubert from carrying the casket since the two musical visionaries were not personally acquainted (although both resided in Vienna at the same time).
In the extraordinary, but mixed review biographical drama Immortal Beloved (1994), award-winning actor Gary Oldman portrays the tortured genius, supported by a stellar cast that includes actress Isabella Rossellini.
Beethoven’s 9th Symphony in D minor (“Ode to Joy”, Opus 125) is the anthem of the EU. In Japan, the “Ode to Joy” has been a staple at Christmas and New Year’s Eve since 1940.
Linked below: Beethoven’s 7th Symphony in A (Opus 92). Maestro Bernard Haitink conducts the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra (2009).
Beethoven: Symphony No. 7 | Bernard Haitink & the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra (2009) - YouTube
“The man that hath no music in himself...is fit for treasons, stratagems, and spoils....”
The Merchant of Venice (Act V, Scene I)