Beethoven's Ninth: UMD Symphony Orchestra with UMD Concert Choir

About the Event

David Neely, music director
Jason Max Ferdinand, music director, UMD Concert Choir

Elizabeth Stovall Gazda, soprano
Madison Hoerbelt, mezzo-soprano
Zhihui Pang, tenor
Nazrin Alymann, bass-baritone

By the time Ludwig van Beethoven began composing his ninth symphony in 1823, his hearing had almost completely deteriorated. Despite his battles with hearing loss, Beethoven was able to compose a symphony that instantly became a masterwork, of which there are few that are as acclaimed or beloved. The grandiose finale introduces the immortal “Ode to Joy” theme, signifying the triumph of the human spirit over adversity and serving as a testament to artistic resilience. The UMD Symphony Orchestra is joined by the UMD Concert Choir for a performance of this legendary symphony, providing a bombastic and joyful conclusion to the School of Music’s season!

Program

Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphony No. 9 with UMD Concert Choir (sung in German)

About the UMD Symphony Orchestra

Through its committed and polished performances under the baton of David Neely, UMSO is dedicated to the power of musical communication. In its repertoire, the orchestra explores the intersection between traditional symphonic masterworks and marginalized works from various eras, with many programs featuring composers of diverse backgrounds.

About UMD Choral Activities

Led by choral conducting alumnus Jason Max Ferdinand D.M.A. ’15, UMD's choral program is internationally regarded and offers students a wide array of choral experiences with music encompassing all styles and eras. In addition to on campus performances, the UMD Concert Choir participates in collaborations with both the National Symphony Orchestra and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra at premier venues including the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Carnegie Hall and Meyerhoff Symphony Hall.