Why is Beethoven so loved? Why has he been a guiding star of civilization for all peoples across the ages? Why is his setting of Friedrich Schiller’s Ode to Joy one of the universal anthems of freedom?

As Beethoven "embraced millions" in his 9th Symphony Opus 125, the Schiller Institute NYC Chorus joined millions around the world embracing Beethoven 250 years after his birth, with a live event broadcast from St. John's in the Village in New York City on December 17th, 2020.

"Don't only practice your art, but force your way into its secrets; art deserves that, for it and knowledge can raise man to the divine."

- Ludwig van Beethoven

The concert program included virtual recordings of the first two movements of Beethoven's other monumental choral work, the Missa Solemnis, Opus 123, which the chorus had committed to performing on this occasion before the pandemic lockdown of 2020 occurred. With your support, that project will continue in 2021, and we look forward to performing this work in full, live and with orchestra, when that can be done safely.

The remainder of the program was performed live.

For the full Program in pdf click here.

Below we highlight the virtual performances from the Missa Solemnis along with Moses Hogan's Hear My Prayer which was recorded with members from the combined choruses of the Schiller institute from North and South America and the Jena Jubilee Choir (Jena, Germany). The full concert is still available for view at www.musae.me/sinycchorus/experiences/879/think-like-beethoven. 

Tickets start at $5.

> Kyrie
https://youtu.be/y91aSuAPCmk
> Gloria
https://youtu.be/Q6WGn5VWPAA

> Hear My Prayer
https://youtu.be/dRDd6nlpItg

Broadcast by MUSAE in both HD and 360° virtual reality.