ODE TO JOY
About the Music
This is probably one of Beethoven’s most famous songs! He actually first used it in a piece called “Choral Fantasy.” He loved the melody so much, that he later used it again in what would become one of his most famous symphonies, the 9th symphony, which was also the last symphony he wrote before he died. This melody actually doesn’t appear until the last movement of this symphony. So if you go to listen to Beethoven’s 9th symphony, and you’re looking for the ‘Ode to Joy’ melody, you have to go to the last movement, which is the fourth movement of the symphony.
About the Words
The words to this song were originally written in German because Beethoven himself was German. But the version you will be learning today is in English. Although the words in this English version aren’t an exact translation of the original German, it attempts to express the general idea or spirit of the original text.
Sing to joy and gladness now and ever more to freedom’s song.
Open up our heart’s desire with- love that’s everlasting.
Let this magic bring together all who- dwell upon the earth.
All mankind shall be together- and peace shall reign upon the earth.
ODE TO JOY
VERSE 1
May this joy of humankind spread all throughout the universe.
Then the very air we breath shall- be pure calm and gentle.
Blue the sky and green the- forest,
All our- children can run free.
And through music bring together- all who sing the ode to joy.
Sing the ode to joy!
VERSE 2