Heading into 2020, conductor Marin Aslop had planned to do a year-long concert series devoted to the composer, with performances scheduled in six different continents. Obviously, that became impossible with the coronavirus pandemic. So instead they now plan to do the next best thing: one online concertwith 10 orchestras from around the world playing 'Ode to Joy' to raise money for struggling musicians.
Throughout this pandemic, we have all discovered that we need music now more than ever. The Global Ode To Joy project is an international video project celebrating Beethoven’s 250th birthday. Everyone can join. By reinventing a year-long concert series for a digital audience and asking musicians and users around the world to share what brings joy to them, the Global Ode to Joy video series brings happiness to many!
Created in collaboration with YouTube and Google Arts & Culture, with support from Germany’s official Beethoven anniversary campaign, the Global Ode To Joy draws inspiration from Beethoven’s beloved “Ode to Joy” chorus and its uplifting message of joy and unity for humankind. Funds raised by Global Ode To Joy will benefit Music for Relief, an organization that helps musicians struggling financially during the COVID-19 pandemic and programs providing mental health support through music.
Read more about WXXI Classical 91.'5s celebration of Beethoven's birth anniversary inThe 12 Days of Ludwig.
