Ludwig van Beethoven’s magnificent Ninth Symphony can be seen as a summary of his life’s work, and though it was not intended as his final symphonic statement it is the first major example of a symphony using voices, and is regarded by many as one of the greatest achievements in the history of music. Inspired by Schiller’s message of universal brotherhood in the Ode to Joy, Beethoven’s stirring choral finale is the climax to a symphony that received five standing ovations at its premiere – the deaf composer having to be turned towards the audience so that he could see their appreciation.