Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)
Duration: 56 min
From the first shimmer of the strings to the “Ode to Joy,” the Ninth turns a symphony into a vast dialogue between instruments and voices.
The Ninth moves forward by contrasts: string tension, a nervy dance, suspended breathing, then a finale that gradually opens the orchestra to the soloists and the choir. Even without knowing the work, one can follow this trajectory: music feeling its way before gathering ever larger forces.
In the finale, cellos and double basses bring forth the melody of joy, soon taken up by the voices. This recording at Lausanne Cathedral, lit by candlelight, brings us close to this dialogue between musicians and singers.
Historic concert. On 9 October 2025, for the 750th anniversary of Lausanne Cathedral, this Ninth brought together the Sinfonietta de Lausanne, four guest soloists, and two choirs, including the Chœur HEP, which unites students and teachers. The participation of non-professional choristers is part of what made this evening singular, illuminated by Kalalumen. To bear witness to its historical and collective scope, Virtual Hall® chose to share this immersive recording.
Before the singing begins, the bass soloist delivers an appeal written by Beethoven himself, preparing the way for Schiller’s poem and its famous refrain.
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