Beethoven Symphony No 9 (Choral); Szymanowski Stabat Mater

Southampton Philharmonic Choir & Southampton University Philharmonic Choir

Freude! Beethoven’s 9th Symphony – also known as the Choral Symphony – is perhaps best known for the climactic final movement, which features the words from Ode to Joy, a poem written by Friedrich Schiller. The piece is considered by many to be the greatest symphony ever composed, though – sadly – Beethoven himself never heard it performed, as he was profoundly deaf by the time of its premiere in 1824.

Szymanowski is the most prominent Polish composer of the early 20th century and is best known for his orchestral and chamber music. However, his Stabat Mater is one of his most expressive and resonant works and is one of the glories of twentieth-century sacred music. The soprano solo in the sixth movement was described by Szymanowski as being ‘the most beautiful melody I have ever managed to write’.

The combined chorus of over 180 voices is joined by the stylish New London Sinfonia and four fabulous soloists in this not-to-be-missed concert!