Music Lesson 2: The Orchestra - Beethoven's 'Ode to Joy'

Another wonderful composition by Beethoven! Another unique performance! Recorded in Spain in May 2012.

Facts: 

1. 'Ode to Joy' is a famous musical piece. It is the prelude to the final movement of Beethoven's Symphony No. 9.
2. It was first performed in Vienna in 1824.
3. It's a tune about peace - it represents universal friendship. 
4. It is the anthem of the European Union.
5. 'Ode to Joy' is also a poem written by Friedrich Schiller in 1785.
6. Beethoven was completely deaf when he composed Symphony No. 9 (he lost his hearing gradually during his adult life).
7. This was the first time a famous composer used voices in a symphony - symphonies are orchestral pieces.