Choral Symphony

This concert is part of the Ertegun Series and is sponsored by The Ioana Maria Banu Ertegun Trust.

Beethoven Choral Fantasy, Op. 80
Beethoven Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125, ‘Choral’

Russell Hirshfield piano
Sophie Bevan soprano
Niamh O’Sullivan mezzo-soprano
Oliver Johnston tenor
Sir Bryn Terfel baritone
Philharmonischer Chor der Stadt Bonn
Marios Papadopoulos conductor               

If Beethoven’s first eight symphonies suggest a composer ahead of his time, his Ninth confirms he was beyond time – able to create a masterpiece for the ages that rose above even himself and his own artistry. The Ninth Symphony displays the composer’s intellectual grasp and emotional eloquence like no other. Dedicated to all of mankind, it remains an overwhelming and galvanising live concert experience and a fitting celebration of 200 years of its creator’s posthumous relevance. With soloists including Sir Bryn Terfel, Marios Papadopoulos conducts this performance at the Sheldonian Theatre before a transfer to Carnegie Hall in New York. The Oxford Philharmonic are thrilled to welcome the Philharmonischer Chor der Stadt Bonn for this performance as a celebration of the 80th anniversary of the twinning of Bonn and Oxford.

The Sheldonian Theatre is a unique space to experience live music. To see an interactive map of the theatre click here.