The Ninth
Program
Ambe by Andrew Balfour
Symphony No. 9 by Ludwig van Beethoven (1770 – 1827)
London Symphonia opens its 2023-24 Season in spectacular style with Beethoven’s monumental Ninth Symphony. The “Ode to Joy” and its powerful message of peace, hope and a brighter future — known around the world — features four outstanding soloists: Bethany Hörst, soprano, Sophie Louise Roland, mezzo-soprano, Bud Roach, tenor, and Giles Tomkins, bass. We are thrilled that the Amabile Choirs of London, The London Singers, and the H.B. Beal Secondary School Singers will be performing in this most magnificent work.
Matthias Maute, one of London Symphonia’s favourite conductors, returns to the podium to lead this very special performance.
Guest Artists
Behind the Music: The Ninth
Conductor Matthias Maute speaks with Artistic Producer Andrew Chung about Beethoven's Ninth Symphony: its huge impact on symphonic composers for generations to come, the performers involved at its premiere, and the challenges of building an interpretation that taps into Beethoven's original intentions. They also discuss 'Ambe' by Andrew Balfour, a choral setting of an Ojibway welcoming song that will open the 2023-24 London Symphonia season.
Musicians Corner
Did you know that Beethoven’s 9th is the only symphony he wrote with four horns? The 4th horn has a beautiful solo in the Third Movement. Find out more in the first episode of Musicians Corner when Sasha Gorbasew, 3rd horn player, speaks with Tim Lockwood, who’ll be sitting in the 4th horn chair for The Ninth. Tim talks about the challenges and how he’s preparing for his big day!
Location
Metropolitan United
468 Wellington Street
London, Ontario
N6A 3P8
Parking
Limited on-site parking is available at Met United. Accessible parking and ramp are located at the east entrance. For special assistance, please notify us in advance at 226-270-0910 or email contact [at] londonsymphonia.ca (contact[at]londonsymphonia[dot]ca). Find parking lot locations.