Radio Philharmonic Orchestra: BEETHOVEN 200

For Beethoven enthusiasts, this will be a special Good Friday. On this very day, the world commemorates the 200th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s death. The Radio Philharmonic Orchestra and the Groot Omroepkoor will present a memorable tribute. In addition to the landscape-like passages of theSixth Symphony, the program features a rare performance of*Christus am Ölberge*, the only oratorio Beethoven ever wrote.

Beethoven’s only oratorio
The greatness of Ludwig van is undisputed. Among idiosyncratic, trendsetting, and rebellious musicians and composers in particular, Beethoven is regarded as a role model. In 2027, the 200th anniversary of the death of this semi-divine maverick will be commemorated worldwide. How fitting, then, to commemorate the great maestro on Good Friday—the exact anniversary of his death. The Radio Philharmonic Orchestra and the Grand Broadcasting Choir are joining forces for a rarely heard performance of Beethoven’s only oratorio. In the poignant*Christus am Ölberge*, Beethoven portrays the fear and tension that Jesus Christ felt in the Garden of Gethsemane.

: A True Storm With his nine symphonies, Beethoven created a universe brimming with Sturm und Drang. Following his tumultuousFifth Symphony, theSixth Symphonyfeels like coming home. Beethoven shows his sunniest side. For the“Pastoral,”the composer found inspiration in the unspoiled nature just outside Vienna. Hear the birds chirping and the mountain streams babbling. Or is an unadulterated storm approaching? The feeling of happiness cannot last forever.