Beethoven Choral Fantasy for piano, voices, chorus, and orchestra, Op. 80

Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts

Altwood Rd, Maidenhead SL6 4PF

I am so excited to have the opportunity to perform the Beethoven Choral Fantasy for piano, voices, chorus, and orchestra, Op. 80 on Saturday 11 October this year, with esteemed conductor, Nigel Wilkinson and St. John’s Chamber Orchestra. Composed in 1808, Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy is a remarkable fusion of piano concerto, chamber music, and choral symphony. Opening with a poetic solo piano passage, the work unfolds into a series of orchestral variations, culminating in a radiant choral finale. Often seen as a precursor to the Ninth Symphony, it shares a similar theme of unity and the transformative power of music. With its bold structure and celebratory spirit, the Choral Fantasy stands as a joyful and forward-looking work in Beethoven’s output.'